Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Oakland, CA

Photo of Liana Huang, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liana Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I am trained in EMDR, psychoanalysis, trauma-informed CBT, DBT, and solution-focused therapy to help clients develop a better understanding of any underlying issues and cope with overwhelming feelings.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
I am trained in EMDR, psychoanalysis, trauma-informed CBT, DBT, and solution-focused therapy to help clients develop a better understanding of any underlying issues and cope with overwhelming feelings.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
(415) 942-6964 View (415) 942-6964
Photo of Casey Loughran, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Casey Loughran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
My clinical approach integrates psychodynamic psychotherapy with trauma-informed, evidenced-based practices (CBT, DBT, ACT, MI), focusing on the therapeutic relationship and the client’s inherent strengths as sources of change.
Therapy is the process of coming to a deeper understanding of ourselves and how we approach the world while contained in the therapeutic relationship. I aim to create a safe, compassionate, and collaborative space to explore why patterns of thinking and interacting have become painful. In my experience, this process leads to improved relationships and communication, greater confidence and enjoyment in life, relief from feeling stuck, strengthened coping skills to manage life stressors, and progress towards one's inherent potential to thrive.
My clinical approach integrates psychodynamic psychotherapy with trauma-informed, evidenced-based practices (CBT, DBT, ACT, MI), focusing on the therapeutic relationship and the client’s inherent strengths as sources of change.
Therapy is the process of coming to a deeper understanding of ourselves and how we approach the world while contained in the therapeutic relationship. I aim to create a safe, compassionate, and collaborative space to explore why patterns of thinking and interacting have become painful. In my experience, this process leads to improved relationships and communication, greater confidence and enjoyment in life, relief from feeling stuck, strengthened coping skills to manage life stressors, and progress towards one's inherent potential to thrive.
(510) 726-7877 View (510) 726-7877
Photo of Brittney Green, LMFT, EMDR, IFS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brittney Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I specialize in IFS, DBT, and CBT to help my clients to identify their internal parts and help these parts to discover healthier skills for coping.
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
I specialize in IFS, DBT, and CBT to help my clients to identify their internal parts and help these parts to discover healthier skills for coping.
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
(415) 582-4434 View (415) 582-4434
Photo of Leroy Watts, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leroy Watts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I am not accepting couples currently. I work with individuals, but my focus is African American men in their first five years of marriage. My goal is to help you become more authentic in your relationships, find and live your values, and bring more peace and growth into your life. I also work with men who want to grow in terms of how they show up in their relationships. I am trained in DBT, Gottman, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness based approaches.
I am not accepting couples currently. I work with individuals, but my focus is African American men in their first five years of marriage. My goal is to help you become more authentic in your relationships, find and live your values, and bring more peace and growth into your life. I also work with men who want to grow in terms of how they show up in their relationships. I am trained in DBT, Gottman, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness based approaches.
(510) 369-2948 View (510) 369-2948
Photo of Heather Macbeth - Oakland DBT and Mindfulness Center, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Oakland DBT and Mindfulness Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
We offer evidenced-based treatment, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) for the treatment of borderline personality disorder, and other clinical symptoms. We are a team of 5 therapists intensively trained in DBT, and other modalities. We offer a comprehensive DBT program (individual therapy, skills class, consultation team, phone coaching, assessment). We have a program for adults, young adults, families and teens. We are located on Piedmont Avenue, in Oakland in the San Francisco Bay Area. Please review our website for detailed information about our intake process, skills class schedule, individual therapy, mindfulness programs, fees, etc...
We offer evidenced-based treatment, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) for the treatment of borderline personality disorder, and other clinical symptoms. We are a team of 5 therapists intensively trained in DBT, and other modalities. We offer a comprehensive DBT program (individual therapy, skills class, consultation team, phone coaching, assessment). We have a program for adults, young adults, families and teens. We are located on Piedmont Avenue, in Oakland in the San Francisco Bay Area. Please review our website for detailed information about our intake process, skills class schedule, individual therapy, mindfulness programs, fees, etc...
(510) 876-9674 View (510) 876-9674
Photo of Rocio Garcia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rocio Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94603
My name is Rocio Garcia, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, and overcoming life transitions. My approach to therapy is an eclectic modality. I aim to tailor my approach to the needs of each client. Most frequently, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing in working with clients and assisting them in making progress toward their goals. My approach is primarily a good fit for emerging adults seeking to process challenges that emerge through life transitions and traumas.
My name is Rocio Garcia, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, and overcoming life transitions. My approach to therapy is an eclectic modality. I aim to tailor my approach to the needs of each client. Most frequently, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing in working with clients and assisting them in making progress toward their goals. My approach is primarily a good fit for emerging adults seeking to process challenges that emerge through life transitions and traumas.
(341) 888-7191 View (341) 888-7191
Photo of Elizabeth Huck, ASW, DBT
Elizabeth Huck
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, DBT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I am trained in Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, IFS, ACT, & DBT, which are integral in healing by helping you address the trauma, depression, anxiety, and anger in the mind and body.
The toll of trauma, stress, anxiety, & depression builds over time, things that once seemed manageable turn into a life that's not our own, because we're stuck in survival mode. It's exhausting. As a therapist, my goal is to collaborate with you to safely navigate your inner landscape and put pieces together so you can uncover your unique abilities and create a mental health toolkit that will carry you through a lifetime. I am here to support you in working through unresolved feelings and conflicts and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
I am trained in Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, IFS, ACT, & DBT, which are integral in healing by helping you address the trauma, depression, anxiety, and anger in the mind and body.
The toll of trauma, stress, anxiety, & depression builds over time, things that once seemed manageable turn into a life that's not our own, because we're stuck in survival mode. It's exhausting. As a therapist, my goal is to collaborate with you to safely navigate your inner landscape and put pieces together so you can uncover your unique abilities and create a mental health toolkit that will carry you through a lifetime. I am here to support you in working through unresolved feelings and conflicts and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(415) 704-6912 View (415) 704-6912
Photo of Alexa Enyart, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alexa Enyart
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I utilize CBT to explore and reframe negative thought patterns, DBT to equip you with coping skills for anxiety & depression and psychodynamic therapy to understand your trauma and unconscious desire and promote insight for lasting change.
Do you feel as though your anxiety and depression are unmanageable? How about feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness like you’ve hit rock bottom and are struggling to find hope for tomorrow? Once we start to unravel the details of our past and trauma we give ourselves the ability to process feelings that we have long suppressed. I aim to collaborate with you and provide tools to decrease the challenging feelings you are currently facing and achieve a more integrated and balanced sense of self, leading to emotional healing and personal growth.
I utilize CBT to explore and reframe negative thought patterns, DBT to equip you with coping skills for anxiety & depression and psychodynamic therapy to understand your trauma and unconscious desire and promote insight for lasting change.
Do you feel as though your anxiety and depression are unmanageable? How about feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness like you’ve hit rock bottom and are struggling to find hope for tomorrow? Once we start to unravel the details of our past and trauma we give ourselves the ability to process feelings that we have long suppressed. I aim to collaborate with you and provide tools to decrease the challenging feelings you are currently facing and achieve a more integrated and balanced sense of self, leading to emotional healing and personal growth.
(415) 909-5493 View (415) 909-5493
Photo of Adam Anderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adam Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I also have training in and utilize Dialectical Behavioral therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Life is hard in our unpredictable, uncertain and rapidly changing world. It makes sense that you may be struggling try to find ground under your feet, a calm amidst the storm of intense emotions and distressing thoughts. Are you looking for practical tools to help steady the mind and effectively respond to life challenges? If you choose to work with me, we will work collaboratively to reduce suffering by meeting difficult experiences with openness and compassion. We will become curious and attentive to the present moment while cultivating a life that is vital and meaningful.
I also have training in and utilize Dialectical Behavioral therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Life is hard in our unpredictable, uncertain and rapidly changing world. It makes sense that you may be struggling try to find ground under your feet, a calm amidst the storm of intense emotions and distressing thoughts. Are you looking for practical tools to help steady the mind and effectively respond to life challenges? If you choose to work with me, we will work collaboratively to reduce suffering by meeting difficult experiences with openness and compassion. We will become curious and attentive to the present moment while cultivating a life that is vital and meaningful.
(510) 983-5528 View (510) 983-5528
Photo of Janelle Raynor, LPCC
Janelle Raynor
LPCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
I offer groups for psychedelic medicine integration, psycho-spiritual awakening, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy trauma skills to live your full life.
Your decision to evolve your place in the world is one of courage, vulnerability, and commitment. We create space for awareness of stressors, habits, and unconscious life patterns so that you actively heal, create, and live your authentic soul-centered life. My focus includes: trauma/C-PTSD, intergenerational trauma including childhood abuse and neglect, and surviving Borderline/Narcissistic parents; survivors of interpersonal violence; neurodivergent women; depression; anxiety; life transitions; complicated grief; religious trauma; thriving in recovery; psychedelic integration; and psycho-spiritual awakening.
I offer groups for psychedelic medicine integration, psycho-spiritual awakening, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy trauma skills to live your full life.
Your decision to evolve your place in the world is one of courage, vulnerability, and commitment. We create space for awareness of stressors, habits, and unconscious life patterns so that you actively heal, create, and live your authentic soul-centered life. My focus includes: trauma/C-PTSD, intergenerational trauma including childhood abuse and neglect, and surviving Borderline/Narcissistic parents; survivors of interpersonal violence; neurodivergent women; depression; anxiety; life transitions; complicated grief; religious trauma; thriving in recovery; psychedelic integration; and psycho-spiritual awakening.
(510) 920-9631 View (510) 920-9631
Photo of Sayrah Garrison, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sayrah Garrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605  (Online Only)
I am a California licensed clinical social worker with nearly 20 years of clinical experience. I specialize in working with individuals presenting with anxiety, depression, substance use and mood disorders. My approaches include CBT, DBT and mindfulness to name a few. Clients describe me as being collaborative, clear and compassionate in my communications.
I am a California licensed clinical social worker with nearly 20 years of clinical experience. I specialize in working with individuals presenting with anxiety, depression, substance use and mood disorders. My approaches include CBT, DBT and mindfulness to name a few. Clients describe me as being collaborative, clear and compassionate in my communications.
(341) 888-6820 View (341) 888-6820
Photo of Stephanie Pepitone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Pepitone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94605
My practice is trauma-informed, DBT-informed, feminist, body and sex positive, with a focus on somatic awareness and expressive arts.
Reaching out for support may feel difficult but you are totally worth it. I can provide you with a place where you will be listened to with compassion and understanding. Through our work together I will bring gentle curiosity to the areas of your life you want to explore. This can look like nurturing any tender wounds, fostering belonging for abandoned parts of yourself, embracing acceptance for things you can't change, and building skills needed for constructing the life and relationships you desire.
My practice is trauma-informed, DBT-informed, feminist, body and sex positive, with a focus on somatic awareness and expressive arts.
Reaching out for support may feel difficult but you are totally worth it. I can provide you with a place where you will be listened to with compassion and understanding. Through our work together I will bring gentle curiosity to the areas of your life you want to explore. This can look like nurturing any tender wounds, fostering belonging for abandoned parts of yourself, embracing acceptance for things you can't change, and building skills needed for constructing the life and relationships you desire.
(341) 895-7197 View (341) 895-7197
Photo of Monika Tucker, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Monika Tucker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
I will bring my deep listening skills, empathic attunement, parts work, and when appropriate, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT skills), as well as Brainspotting to our work together.
My goal is to provide a safe and supportive container of warmth, presence, and non-judgement, where you can bring both your vulnerability and your strengths. Whatever brings you to therapy, we will explore together at your pace and with your unique needs in mind. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, childhood trauma or grief and loss, we will collaboratively work together to find out what healing might look like for you. Our work together can help you recognize limiting patterns or beliefs, create new options, and shed light on forgotten inner resources.
I will bring my deep listening skills, empathic attunement, parts work, and when appropriate, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT skills), as well as Brainspotting to our work together.
My goal is to provide a safe and supportive container of warmth, presence, and non-judgement, where you can bring both your vulnerability and your strengths. Whatever brings you to therapy, we will explore together at your pace and with your unique needs in mind. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, childhood trauma or grief and loss, we will collaboratively work together to find out what healing might look like for you. Our work together can help you recognize limiting patterns or beliefs, create new options, and shed light on forgotten inner resources.
(510) 422-0734 View (510) 422-0734
Photo of Justine Gordon, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Justine Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I draw from EMDR, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, and DBT.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
I draw from EMDR, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, and DBT.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
(415) 936-0776 View (415) 936-0776
Photo of Erick Santos, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erick Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I specialize in trauma whether it is complex trauma or intergenerational trauma using individualistic approaches to meet your needs through TF-CBT, CBT, DBT, and EMDR therapy.
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences then often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
I specialize in trauma whether it is complex trauma or intergenerational trauma using individualistic approaches to meet your needs through TF-CBT, CBT, DBT, and EMDR therapy.
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences then often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
(415) 324-4286 View (415) 324-4286
Photo of Melanie Maddox, ASW, EMDR, BSP
Melanie Maddox
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR, BSP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
(415) 236-9452 View (415) 236-9452
Photo of Lis Elle Werth, MA, SEP, AMFT, LMHC-LP, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lis Elle Werth
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, SEP, AMFT, LMHC-LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Working w/ me may include elements of: somatic work, expressive arts, IFS, parts work, dream work, emotional regulation/ DBT skills, harm reduction, collaborative grounding, and sacred humor.
Direct & compassionate collaborative care. Clients I tend to work with are individuals, couples, and those in relationship who may identify as: creatives, somatically curious, spiritual seekers, longing for belonging, neurodivergent, anxious, depressed, navigating shame, grieving, insecure, psychedelically-inclined, powerfully sensitive, emotionally dysregulated, substance users, those attempting intimacy and deep relationship with others, and/or trauma survivors. I currently see CA clients virtually, & I am offering ketamine-assisted therapy in-person for NY residents. I am also a certified Somatic Experiencing Practitioner.
Working w/ me may include elements of: somatic work, expressive arts, IFS, parts work, dream work, emotional regulation/ DBT skills, harm reduction, collaborative grounding, and sacred humor.
Direct & compassionate collaborative care. Clients I tend to work with are individuals, couples, and those in relationship who may identify as: creatives, somatically curious, spiritual seekers, longing for belonging, neurodivergent, anxious, depressed, navigating shame, grieving, insecure, psychedelically-inclined, powerfully sensitive, emotionally dysregulated, substance users, those attempting intimacy and deep relationship with others, and/or trauma survivors. I currently see CA clients virtually, & I am offering ketamine-assisted therapy in-person for NY residents. I am also a certified Somatic Experiencing Practitioner.
(510) 369-1702 View (510) 369-1702
Photo of Emma Tennison, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Tennison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94620  (Online Only)
My clinical approach includes elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (identifying and challenging unhelpful habits in our thinking), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and other mindfulness-based tools, and Motivational Interviewing (providing a compassionate space for people to explore and identify their own motivation for behavior change).
Seeking support can feel vulnerable – especially when the culture around us glorifies “self-made” success stories and aspires to a seemingly effortless, perfectly curated social media existence. The reality of course is that life is messy, and that we all benefit from support. We are impacted by world events, our environments, relationships, the histories of our people (our families, ancestors, communities), and our own unique collection of lived experiences. As a therapist I view my role as that of an ally, confidant, collaborator - and very occasionally a guide.
My clinical approach includes elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (identifying and challenging unhelpful habits in our thinking), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and other mindfulness-based tools, and Motivational Interviewing (providing a compassionate space for people to explore and identify their own motivation for behavior change).
Seeking support can feel vulnerable – especially when the culture around us glorifies “self-made” success stories and aspires to a seemingly effortless, perfectly curated social media existence. The reality of course is that life is messy, and that we all benefit from support. We are impacted by world events, our environments, relationships, the histories of our people (our families, ancestors, communities), and our own unique collection of lived experiences. As a therapist I view my role as that of an ally, confidant, collaborator - and very occasionally a guide.
(510) 369-2713 View (510) 369-2713
Photo of Brittany Crew, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brittany Crew
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I am driven to work in the mental health field because I believe that everybody needs support and guidance throughout life. Life can be stressful and demanding for all people, it’s my goal to help people use different coping skills and perspectives to help them manage their stressors and find a healthier way of life. Therapy isn’t always about fixing a problem or finding happiness, it’s about finding wellness. In my treatment approach I use CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, DBT, and Person Centered Therapy. I enjoy working with young adults who are facing major life changes such as entering into the workforce or moving away from home.
I am driven to work in the mental health field because I believe that everybody needs support and guidance throughout life. Life can be stressful and demanding for all people, it’s my goal to help people use different coping skills and perspectives to help them manage their stressors and find a healthier way of life. Therapy isn’t always about fixing a problem or finding happiness, it’s about finding wellness. In my treatment approach I use CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, DBT, and Person Centered Therapy. I enjoy working with young adults who are facing major life changes such as entering into the workforce or moving away from home.
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Photo of Dr. Tracy Cleo Smith, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Tracy Cleo Smith
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
I am EMDR-certified and trained in DBT, which improves mindfulness, managing difficult emotions and stress.
"We are now able to see the essential ingredient that makes psychotherapy effective and successful. It is not unconditional positive regard, nor is it magical words, techniques, or postures; it is human involvement and struggle. It is the willingness of the therapist to extend himself or herself for the purpose of nurturing the patient's growth - willingness to go out on a limb, to truly involve oneself at an emotional level in the relationship." M.Scott Peck, MD
I am EMDR-certified and trained in DBT, which improves mindfulness, managing difficult emotions and stress.
"We are now able to see the essential ingredient that makes psychotherapy effective and successful. It is not unconditional positive regard, nor is it magical words, techniques, or postures; it is human involvement and struggle. It is the willingness of the therapist to extend himself or herself for the purpose of nurturing the patient's growth - willingness to go out on a limb, to truly involve oneself at an emotional level in the relationship." M.Scott Peck, MD
(628) 227-5537 View (628) 227-5537
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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.