Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Palm Desert, CA

Photo of Zunilda Chaudry, Counselor, LCPC
Zunilda Chaudry
Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
I use with my clients therapeutical approaches such as the cognitive behavior therapy, behavior therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, client centered therapy, play therapy, family and relationship therapy are the most commonly used approaches.
I believe that you are the expert and the author of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
I use with my clients therapeutical approaches such as the cognitive behavior therapy, behavior therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, client centered therapy, play therapy, family and relationship therapy are the most commonly used approaches.
I believe that you are the expert and the author of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
(760) 823-7441 View (760) 823-7441
Photo of Jacqueline Rivera, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jacqueline Rivera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Palm Desert, CA 92260
Our goal is to navigate these challenges together, leaning heavily on DBT to equip you with effective coping strategies and a renewed sense of hope.
Rooted in DBT and reflective practices, my approach emphasizes mindfulness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. We'll explore these techniques within a client-centered framework, ensuring therapy aligns with your personal narrative and goals. This tailored strategy encourages profound self-discovery and meaningful change.
Our goal is to navigate these challenges together, leaning heavily on DBT to equip you with effective coping strategies and a renewed sense of hope.
Rooted in DBT and reflective practices, my approach emphasizes mindfulness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. We'll explore these techniques within a client-centered framework, ensuring therapy aligns with your personal narrative and goals. This tailored strategy encourages profound self-discovery and meaningful change.
(858) 326-9919 View (858) 326-9919
Photo of Kasey Rissman, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, YTT
Kasey Rissman
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, YTT
Palm Desert, CA 92260
I strongly believe in the power of Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Internal Family Systems to cultivate self -awareness, reduce stress and promote well-being.
Hello My name is Kasey Rissman, LPCC. I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist specializing in working with clients who struggle with eating disorders, depression, anxiety and substance abuse. I am deeply committed to helping individuals overcome their challenges and achieve lasting mental wellness.
I strongly believe in the power of Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Internal Family Systems to cultivate self -awareness, reduce stress and promote well-being.
Hello My name is Kasey Rissman, LPCC. I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist specializing in working with clients who struggle with eating disorders, depression, anxiety and substance abuse. I am deeply committed to helping individuals overcome their challenges and achieve lasting mental wellness.
(760) 706-7384 View (760) 706-7384
Photo of Christina Cisneros, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Christina Cisneros
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Palm Desert, CA 92260
We utilize CBT, EFT, DBT and Trauma Focused to tailor our approach to your needs, combining techniques for emotional regulation, mindfulness, and reshaping your narrative.
If you're navigating the turbulent waters of stress and trauma, feeling as though each day presents a new battle, you're not alone. My practice is dedicated to individuals who are ready to confront these challenges head-on, seeking understanding and healing. Whether you're dealing with the aftermath of traumatic events, or the daily grind is wearing you down, I offer a compassionate and empowering space for you to begin the journey towards reclaiming your narrative and finding peace. Together, we will explore strategies for resilience and recovery, tailored to your unique story
We utilize CBT, EFT, DBT and Trauma Focused to tailor our approach to your needs, combining techniques for emotional regulation, mindfulness, and reshaping your narrative.
If you're navigating the turbulent waters of stress and trauma, feeling as though each day presents a new battle, you're not alone. My practice is dedicated to individuals who are ready to confront these challenges head-on, seeking understanding and healing. Whether you're dealing with the aftermath of traumatic events, or the daily grind is wearing you down, I offer a compassionate and empowering space for you to begin the journey towards reclaiming your narrative and finding peace. Together, we will explore strategies for resilience and recovery, tailored to your unique story
(760) 334-6288 View (760) 334-6288
Photo of Tania J McCormick, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Tania J McCormick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Palm Desert, CA 92211
My therapeutic approach can include CBT, DBT, Interpersonal, humanistic, but is mostly integrative based on the client's needs.
Meet Tania McCormick, a licensed Therapist for over 20 years, working with adults and teens. Tania is experienced in working with anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, life changing events, unresolved childhoods, codependency, and interracial issues. I have raised two children, with all the pleasures and challenges. Let me support you, give you an outsider's honest perspective, and then challenge, and support you to find your solutions.
My therapeutic approach can include CBT, DBT, Interpersonal, humanistic, but is mostly integrative based on the client's needs.
Meet Tania McCormick, a licensed Therapist for over 20 years, working with adults and teens. Tania is experienced in working with anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, life changing events, unresolved childhoods, codependency, and interracial issues. I have raised two children, with all the pleasures and challenges. Let me support you, give you an outsider's honest perspective, and then challenge, and support you to find your solutions.
(760) 823-7242 View (760) 823-7242
Photo of Jessica Sanchez - The Refinery Integrated Wellness Services, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
The Refinery Integrated Wellness Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Palm Desert, CA 92260
The Refinery offers the only Comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy program in the Coachella Valley.
The Refinery is accepting new clients! See our full list of clinicians on our website! Do you feel dissatisfied with life as you are currently living it? Have past attempts in therapy failed? The therapists at The Refinery can help! The Refinery is a group therapy located in the El Paseo Shopping District of Palm Desert. At The Refinery, we understand that although you may be doing the best you can at this moment, you may need additional support to work through troubling issues and reach your goals. Our therapists are passionate about using their specialized skills and training to help you create a life worth living.
The Refinery offers the only Comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy program in the Coachella Valley.
The Refinery is accepting new clients! See our full list of clinicians on our website! Do you feel dissatisfied with life as you are currently living it? Have past attempts in therapy failed? The therapists at The Refinery can help! The Refinery is a group therapy located in the El Paseo Shopping District of Palm Desert. At The Refinery, we understand that although you may be doing the best you can at this moment, you may need additional support to work through troubling issues and reach your goals. Our therapists are passionate about using their specialized skills and training to help you create a life worth living.
(760) 539-8397 View (760) 539-8397
Photo of Matthew Wettlaufer, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, ART
Matthew Wettlaufer
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, ART
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I can offer psychodynamic approaches (inner child work) for the reduction of trauma; basic CBT and DBT strategies for reducing anxiety and depression; and ART (accelerated resolution therapy) for PTSD resolution.
Often the clients I work with are individuals with childhood trauma who wish to resolve these painful experiences and heal. I also work with clients grappling with codependency in relationships with spouses, friends and family. I can be an added source of support to clients who are already in recovery doing 12 step work, supporting their efforts to stay clean/sober. And I often work with clients experiencing life transitions and changes.
I can offer psychodynamic approaches (inner child work) for the reduction of trauma; basic CBT and DBT strategies for reducing anxiety and depression; and ART (accelerated resolution therapy) for PTSD resolution.
Often the clients I work with are individuals with childhood trauma who wish to resolve these painful experiences and heal. I also work with clients grappling with codependency in relationships with spouses, friends and family. I can be an added source of support to clients who are already in recovery doing 12 step work, supporting their efforts to stay clean/sober. And I often work with clients experiencing life transitions and changes.
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Photo of Wendy Myers - Sage Recovery Services, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAADC, ICADC, MSCP, LMHC
Sage Recovery Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAADC, ICADC, MSCP, LMHC
Online Only
I utilize Evidence Based practices such as CBT, Solution Focus, Person Centered and DBT for addiction and recovery, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, depression to help you in developing coping skills to walk through this healing process and help you to start living.
For 31 years, I have specialized in attending to the needs of my clients with addiction problems and mental health needs. I am very passionate about working with individuals who want to improve themselves, live a productive and happier, peaceful life. I will help you to find the right skills and tools to utilize in your recovery.
I utilize Evidence Based practices such as CBT, Solution Focus, Person Centered and DBT for addiction and recovery, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, depression to help you in developing coping skills to walk through this healing process and help you to start living.
For 31 years, I have specialized in attending to the needs of my clients with addiction problems and mental health needs. I am very passionate about working with individuals who want to improve themselves, live a productive and happier, peaceful life. I will help you to find the right skills and tools to utilize in your recovery.
(760) 307-1195 View (760) 307-1195
Photo of Susan J Alexander, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, BCCC
Susan J Alexander
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, BCCC
Online Only
My therapeutic work is drawn from a variety of modalities and practices that incorporate mindfulness, somatic, experiential, EMDR, DBT, IFS level 1, trauma informed, transpersonal &inquiry.
"When we are caught in our mind we cannot feel our own beingness" I am dedicated to working with individuals, families and young adults who are experiencing a range of emotional and behavioral concerns. Through client-centered sessions I offer a practice that deeply focuses on a myriad of issues including,communications,integration, anxiety, PTSD, depression, trauma, challenges with transitions in life stages, as well as finding purpose and searching for greater meaning and happiness. I seek to provide a space that is safe and supportive, where one can connect to and experience their deepest self, be listened to and validated.
My therapeutic work is drawn from a variety of modalities and practices that incorporate mindfulness, somatic, experiential, EMDR, DBT, IFS level 1, trauma informed, transpersonal &inquiry.
"When we are caught in our mind we cannot feel our own beingness" I am dedicated to working with individuals, families and young adults who are experiencing a range of emotional and behavioral concerns. Through client-centered sessions I offer a practice that deeply focuses on a myriad of issues including,communications,integration, anxiety, PTSD, depression, trauma, challenges with transitions in life stages, as well as finding purpose and searching for greater meaning and happiness. I seek to provide a space that is safe and supportive, where one can connect to and experience their deepest self, be listened to and validated.
(760) 891-4657 View (760) 891-4657
Photo of Thomas Little, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Thomas Little
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to support growth through self-understanding, healthier communication, and relational healing.
When your sense of self feels tangled in family dynamics, past trauma, or the weight of others’ expectations, it’s easy to feel invisible—even to yourself. Many of the teens and adults I work with have spent years hiding parts of who they are to keep the peace or protect themselves. This can leave you questioning your identity, your worth, and your place in your own story. With an MS from California Lutheran University and a focus on trauma-informed care, I help individuals—especially those in the 2s/LGBTQIA+ community—begin to unravel these patterns and build more authentic, connected lives.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to support growth through self-understanding, healthier communication, and relational healing.
When your sense of self feels tangled in family dynamics, past trauma, or the weight of others’ expectations, it’s easy to feel invisible—even to yourself. Many of the teens and adults I work with have spent years hiding parts of who they are to keep the peace or protect themselves. This can leave you questioning your identity, your worth, and your place in your own story. With an MS from California Lutheran University and a focus on trauma-informed care, I help individuals—especially those in the 2s/LGBTQIA+ community—begin to unravel these patterns and build more authentic, connected lives.
(858) 358-6354 View (858) 358-6354
Photo of Laura Aparicio, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC
Laura Aparicio
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC
Palm Desert, CA 92260
I specialize in DBT & CBT, among other evidence-based approaches, to best serve my clients, help them heal from trauma, and reduce and manage mental health issues.
As your provider, I will be honest, empathetic, and thoughtful in feedback. I will actively collaborate with you to help you take steps toward your goals. My purpose as your counselor is to provide you with the support you need.
I specialize in DBT & CBT, among other evidence-based approaches, to best serve my clients, help them heal from trauma, and reduce and manage mental health issues.
As your provider, I will be honest, empathetic, and thoughtful in feedback. I will actively collaborate with you to help you take steps toward your goals. My purpose as your counselor is to provide you with the support you need.
(858) 667-7790 View (858) 667-7790
Photo of Stephanie Flor Mejia, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Stephanie Flor Mejia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), I focus on helping you develop practical tools for emotional balance, self-understanding, and resilience.
It can be overwhelming when anxiety, postpartum struggles, or major life changes leave you feeling unsteady and unsure of yourself. Even if everything looks “okay” on the outside, inside you might feel isolated, exhausted, or stuck between who you’ve been and who you want to become. My personal and professional experiences have played a pivotal role in motivating me to pursue a career as a mental health clinician. Witnessing the challenges faced by others, along with my own journey of self-discovery, ignited a deep desire to help people navigate their emotional and mental health struggles.
Drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), I focus on helping you develop practical tools for emotional balance, self-understanding, and resilience.
It can be overwhelming when anxiety, postpartum struggles, or major life changes leave you feeling unsteady and unsure of yourself. Even if everything looks “okay” on the outside, inside you might feel isolated, exhausted, or stuck between who you’ve been and who you want to become. My personal and professional experiences have played a pivotal role in motivating me to pursue a career as a mental health clinician. Witnessing the challenges faced by others, along with my own journey of self-discovery, ignited a deep desire to help people navigate their emotional and mental health struggles.
(858) 544-6561 View (858) 544-6561
Photo of Darrin Dennis, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Darrin Dennis
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
Drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), mindfulness approaches, and Motivational Interviewing.
Struggling with intense emotions, mood shifts, or questioning your faith can leave you feeling unmoored and searching for solid ground. These experiences aren’t about weakness—they reflect the real complexity of living and growing. I’m motivated by the opportunity to walk alongside my clients with compassion and collaboration, and I continue to be inspired by the strength and courage it takes to lean into change. Watching people grow into their authentic selves is one of the most powerful parts of this work.
Drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), mindfulness approaches, and Motivational Interviewing.
Struggling with intense emotions, mood shifts, or questioning your faith can leave you feeling unmoored and searching for solid ground. These experiences aren’t about weakness—they reflect the real complexity of living and growing. I’m motivated by the opportunity to walk alongside my clients with compassion and collaboration, and I continue to be inspired by the strength and courage it takes to lean into change. Watching people grow into their authentic selves is one of the most powerful parts of this work.
(858) 428-2978 View (858) 428-2978
Photo of Ebony Harris, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Ebony Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I have experience working with a range of modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solutions Focused, Seeking Safety, Strengths-Based, EMDR, and Client-Centered.
Welcome! My name is Ebony Harris, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. As a therapist, it is a privilege to walk alongside my clients on their unique journey to overcome barriers that are preventing them from living their full potential. I am passionate about empowering my clients to heal and live authentically. "One chapter doesn't tell the full story." Let's continue writing your story!
I have experience working with a range of modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solutions Focused, Seeking Safety, Strengths-Based, EMDR, and Client-Centered.
Welcome! My name is Ebony Harris, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. As a therapist, it is a privilege to walk alongside my clients on their unique journey to overcome barriers that are preventing them from living their full potential. I am passionate about empowering my clients to heal and live authentically. "One chapter doesn't tell the full story." Let's continue writing your story!
(510) 298-3782 View (510) 298-3782
Photo of Chanell Dudley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chanell Dudley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I utilize various techniques and skills drawn from recognized therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Dialectical Behavioral therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from California State University, Dominguez Hills, and a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California, with a concentration on Children, Youth, and Families I believe that healing is a collaborative endeavor that requires non-judgmental caring I assist client’s in recognizing their strengths and helping them realize their potential to live happy and fulfilling lives I provide an environment of compassion, empathy, and support to help individuals overcome their obstacles.
I utilize various techniques and skills drawn from recognized therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Dialectical Behavioral therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from California State University, Dominguez Hills, and a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California, with a concentration on Children, Youth, and Families I believe that healing is a collaborative endeavor that requires non-judgmental caring I assist client’s in recognizing their strengths and helping them realize their potential to live happy and fulfilling lives I provide an environment of compassion, empathy, and support to help individuals overcome their obstacles.
(408) 692-0667 View (408) 692-0667
Photo of Tenesha Thompson-Hoskins, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Tenesha Thompson-Hoskins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Palm Desert, CA 92211
I have a variety of different treatment modalities that I use, but aren't limited to such as CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, etc.
I've been counseling for over 20 years, working with a diversity of clients various issues but not limited to those with addiction, codependency, self-esteem, low motivation, anxiety, depression and racial inequalities as well, just to name a few. I enjoy working with client as they take this courageous journey to finding some different and better coping skills. I also love working with client as they begin to gain more insight into the past trauma and ways to changing their tomorrows. I have a passion of working with clients on looking at levels of forgiveness, breaking down past shame and guilt that one may still be suffering.
I have a variety of different treatment modalities that I use, but aren't limited to such as CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, etc.
I've been counseling for over 20 years, working with a diversity of clients various issues but not limited to those with addiction, codependency, self-esteem, low motivation, anxiety, depression and racial inequalities as well, just to name a few. I enjoy working with client as they take this courageous journey to finding some different and better coping skills. I also love working with client as they begin to gain more insight into the past trauma and ways to changing their tomorrows. I have a passion of working with clients on looking at levels of forgiveness, breaking down past shame and guilt that one may still be suffering.
(760) 334-7868 View (760) 334-7868
Photo of Gina Leiserowitz, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, NCC
Gina Leiserowitz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I offer a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and Imago Relationship Therapy for Couples.
My name is Gina Leiserowitz (Lie-zer-witz). I am a marriage and family therapist and a licensed professional clinical counselor with many years of experience. I love being a therapist. I have worked with people who have trauma, PTSD, chronic pain, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and much more. In my practice I offer a caring, non-judgmental space in which you will have someone to talk to who will listen warmly and help you with your issues, need, and goals.
I offer a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and Imago Relationship Therapy for Couples.
My name is Gina Leiserowitz (Lie-zer-witz). I am a marriage and family therapist and a licensed professional clinical counselor with many years of experience. I love being a therapist. I have worked with people who have trauma, PTSD, chronic pain, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and much more. In my practice I offer a caring, non-judgmental space in which you will have someone to talk to who will listen warmly and help you with your issues, need, and goals.
(760) 452-8565 View (760) 452-8565
Photo of Elizabeth J. Vanegas, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Elizabeth J. Vanegas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I have been trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Seeking safety, motivational interviewing, and provide other therapy modalities.
I'm a bilingual therapist who provides a safe environment where you can be heard, seen, and most importantly respected. We are on this journey together and building a community around you is key. Helping you find your voice and most importantly reach your goals. Life is a journey full of adventures and you deserve to access everything your life has to offer.
I have been trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Seeking safety, motivational interviewing, and provide other therapy modalities.
I'm a bilingual therapist who provides a safe environment where you can be heard, seen, and most importantly respected. We are on this journey together and building a community around you is key. Helping you find your voice and most importantly reach your goals. Life is a journey full of adventures and you deserve to access everything your life has to offer.
(760) 983-7964 View (760) 983-7964
Photo of Britney Wong, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Britney Wong
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
As a therapist, I work with children, teens, young adults, and parents using ACT, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing.
Maybe you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by big emotions, stuck in patterns that don’t make sense, or unsure how to support your child through something hard. Whether you’re a young adult navigating growing pressures, a teen trying to make sense of your world, or a parent holding more than your share, it can feel like no one really gets it. I’ve been there too—in the messy, complicated parts of life where just having someone truly listen can make all the difference.
As a therapist, I work with children, teens, young adults, and parents using ACT, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing.
Maybe you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by big emotions, stuck in patterns that don’t make sense, or unsure how to support your child through something hard. Whether you’re a young adult navigating growing pressures, a teen trying to make sense of your world, or a parent holding more than your share, it can feel like no one really gets it. I’ve been there too—in the messy, complicated parts of life where just having someone truly listen can make all the difference.
(858) 463-4228 View (858) 463-4228
Photo of Beverly Jewell - Divorce Prevention Counseling / Beverly Jewell, Counselor, LPCC
I specialize in Conflict Resolution, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, DBT, CBT, and use a Mindfulness approach for anxiety, past trauma, infidelity and broken trust.
Are you at a crossroads, wondering what it would take to turn things around? Are you having the same arguments, not knowing how to break the cycle? Or perhaps you've decided to end your relationship but want to do so in a peaceful, respectful way that won't cause more hurt, especially if you have children together. This is a serious, life changing decision and should not be made out of frustration. Isn't it better to look at all options, get an objective opinion, then make the best choice possible? This is where a neutral professional can help. Limited In-personal appts available Tue-Thur in Palm Springs. Video sessions avail. M-F
I specialize in Conflict Resolution, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, DBT, CBT, and use a Mindfulness approach for anxiety, past trauma, infidelity and broken trust.
Are you at a crossroads, wondering what it would take to turn things around? Are you having the same arguments, not knowing how to break the cycle? Or perhaps you've decided to end your relationship but want to do so in a peaceful, respectful way that won't cause more hurt, especially if you have children together. This is a serious, life changing decision and should not be made out of frustration. Isn't it better to look at all options, get an objective opinion, then make the best choice possible? This is where a neutral professional can help. Limited In-personal appts available Tue-Thur in Palm Springs. Video sessions avail. M-F
(760) 973-5757 View (760) 973-5757

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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.