Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in San Diego, CA
I offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectal Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) to treat mood disorders, Family Based Therapy (FBT) and CBT to treat eating disorders, and attachment and client focused therapy to treat trauma.
I treat children, adolescents, and young adults with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, eating disorders and trauma by changing their mood, thought patterns, acceptance, and the way they approach their struggles. I believe in managing issues from a holistic perspective and that the right support and tools can help impact a positive change. I am also qualified to complete psychological assessments and evaluations.
I offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectal Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) to treat mood disorders, Family Based Therapy (FBT) and CBT to treat eating disorders, and attachment and client focused therapy to treat trauma.
I treat children, adolescents, and young adults with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, eating disorders and trauma by changing their mood, thought patterns, acceptance, and the way they approach their struggles. I believe in managing issues from a holistic perspective and that the right support and tools can help impact a positive change. I am also qualified to complete psychological assessments and evaluations.

Porta Verum Psychotherapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, LPCC
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
Our therapists are trained in variety of treatment modalities such as CBT, EMDR, DBT, Play Therapy, Somatic Approaches, Mindfulness, Yoga, etc.
Porta Verum Psychotherapy Services provides comprehensive psychotherapy services for individuals, couples, and families so they can heal through traumas and overcome their mental, emotional, psychological, and interpersonal challenges so that they can experience a life worth living with joy, connection, empowerment, and love. We are a group of experienced, passionate, and dedicated therapists who are committed to an exceptional quality of care, and utilizing a range of best practice modalities to facilitate transformation in people’s lives. We offer psychotherapy services to children of all ages, adults, families, and couples.
Our therapists are trained in variety of treatment modalities such as CBT, EMDR, DBT, Play Therapy, Somatic Approaches, Mindfulness, Yoga, etc.
Porta Verum Psychotherapy Services provides comprehensive psychotherapy services for individuals, couples, and families so they can heal through traumas and overcome their mental, emotional, psychological, and interpersonal challenges so that they can experience a life worth living with joy, connection, empowerment, and love. We are a group of experienced, passionate, and dedicated therapists who are committed to an exceptional quality of care, and utilizing a range of best practice modalities to facilitate transformation in people’s lives. We offer psychotherapy services to children of all ages, adults, families, and couples.

I have training in evidence based treatments, including The Gottman Method, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
I help individuals and couples make positive changes in life as well as develop skills to better manage the issues that may get in the way. I will help you make sense of your difficulties and bring understanding to negative behavior patterns. I have worked with a variety of individuals and couples from multicultural backgrounds with a wide range of complex mental health related issues. I am particularly experienced in treating those with a history of trauma, depressive or anxiety symptoms and issues that interfere with: relationships, academic performance/work or creativity.
I have training in evidence based treatments, including The Gottman Method, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT).
I help individuals and couples make positive changes in life as well as develop skills to better manage the issues that may get in the way. I will help you make sense of your difficulties and bring understanding to negative behavior patterns. I have worked with a variety of individuals and couples from multicultural backgrounds with a wide range of complex mental health related issues. I am particularly experienced in treating those with a history of trauma, depressive or anxiety symptoms and issues that interfere with: relationships, academic performance/work or creativity.

I use a mix of ACT, CBT, DBT, Solution focused and MI to assist clients in identifying their values, exploring how their thought and behavioral patterns are serving them, increase their distress tolerance, build mindfulness and relaxation skills to help them meet their goals.
I honor and respect the opportunity I have to help my clients recognize their worth, build trust in themselves and others, and empower them to be their authentic selves.
I use a mix of ACT, CBT, DBT, Solution focused and MI to assist clients in identifying their values, exploring how their thought and behavioral patterns are serving them, increase their distress tolerance, build mindfulness and relaxation skills to help them meet their goals.
I honor and respect the opportunity I have to help my clients recognize their worth, build trust in themselves and others, and empower them to be their authentic selves.

I use an integrative and interactive treatment approach, incorporating techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
Strive To Thrive Psychology is dedicated to supporting the mental health of adults living with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, other autoimmune disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and/or other chronic and invisible illness or invisible disability. I focus on helping you improve your quality of life so that you can better manage your chronic illness and thrive both physically and emotionally.
I use an integrative and interactive treatment approach, incorporating techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
Strive To Thrive Psychology is dedicated to supporting the mental health of adults living with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, other autoimmune disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and/or other chronic and invisible illness or invisible disability. I focus on helping you improve your quality of life so that you can better manage your chronic illness and thrive both physically and emotionally.

I also provide comprehensive DBT program tailored to meet your unique needs.
I believe that personal growth flourishes in an environment of authenticity and self-acceptance. My goal is to help you reconnect with your true self and develop effective coping strategies to navigate life’s challenges. I’m committed to fostering a therapeutic relationship that emphasizes genuine connection, open communication, and mutual respect.
I also provide comprehensive DBT program tailored to meet your unique needs.
I believe that personal growth flourishes in an environment of authenticity and self-acceptance. My goal is to help you reconnect with your true self and develop effective coping strategies to navigate life’s challenges. I’m committed to fostering a therapeutic relationship that emphasizes genuine connection, open communication, and mutual respect.

In our work together, I integrate processes, interventions, and skills based in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, CBT, DBT; I also provide EMDR therapy for trauma concerns, Emotionally-Focused Therapy for couples, and Christian counseling to those seeking to integrate their faith.
My specialty area of work is with the military and veteran community; however, I will gladly provide counseling services to any person, couple, or family that seeks to address mental health concerns, relational concerns, as well as those seeking spiritual direction, among other areas.
In our work together, I integrate processes, interventions, and skills based in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, CBT, DBT; I also provide EMDR therapy for trauma concerns, Emotionally-Focused Therapy for couples, and Christian counseling to those seeking to integrate their faith.
My specialty area of work is with the military and veteran community; however, I will gladly provide counseling services to any person, couple, or family that seeks to address mental health concerns, relational concerns, as well as those seeking spiritual direction, among other areas.

Diagnosis of ADHD for all populations utilizing Test of Variables of Attention (T.O.V.A.), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), PE, Behavioral Modification for children and adolescents, working with adolescents experiencing acculturation issues, Parenting Skills, Couples & Family developmental communication strategies, and attachment realignment.
My specialization is treatment of Trauma, resulting in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD); Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) associated in adults and children; Anxiety/Depressive Disorders; Personality Disorders; Cultural Adjustment; and Individual & Couples Therapy.
Diagnosis of ADHD for all populations utilizing Test of Variables of Attention (T.O.V.A.), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), PE, Behavioral Modification for children and adolescents, working with adolescents experiencing acculturation issues, Parenting Skills, Couples & Family developmental communication strategies, and attachment realignment.
My specialization is treatment of Trauma, resulting in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD); Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) associated in adults and children; Anxiety/Depressive Disorders; Personality Disorders; Cultural Adjustment; and Individual & Couples Therapy.

I also have extensive expertise in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and other well established sex therapies.
Struggling in your relationship or sex life? Feeling like nothing you do turns out right or gets you what you want? Wanting to heal your attachment style or past relationship trauma? I'm here to help you get unstuck from frustrating patterns and find a new way forward. We'll work to understand what's going wrong and make tangible changes towards connection and the relationships that fit you.
I also have extensive expertise in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and other well established sex therapies.
Struggling in your relationship or sex life? Feeling like nothing you do turns out right or gets you what you want? Wanting to heal your attachment style or past relationship trauma? I'm here to help you get unstuck from frustrating patterns and find a new way forward. We'll work to understand what's going wrong and make tangible changes towards connection and the relationships that fit you.

I will utilize approaches such as Mindfulness/Buddhist Psychology, Voice Dialogue (parts work), and even Dialectical Behavioral Therapy in working with clients.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) in California. My work with people is based upon equality and mutual respect. My work with you is a partnership for you to address what's bugging you, whether it's relief from emotional pain, greater efficacy in your life, or building healthy relationships.
I will utilize approaches such as Mindfulness/Buddhist Psychology, Voice Dialogue (parts work), and even Dialectical Behavioral Therapy in working with clients.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) in California. My work with people is based upon equality and mutual respect. My work with you is a partnership for you to address what's bugging you, whether it's relief from emotional pain, greater efficacy in your life, or building healthy relationships.

Using evidence-based techniques like Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), I help clients develop healthier coping strategies, emotional regulation skills, and insight into their personal narratives.
I specialize in supporting teens, couples, trauma survivors, and LGBTQ+ individuals—especially those navigating identity, faith, family, and healing.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in unhelpful patterns. Maybe you’re struggling with intrusive thoughts, relationship challenges, or past experiences that still affect you. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, difficult relationships, parenting, grief, OCD, or life transitions, I’m here to help.
My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and solution-focused—we work together to find what truly helps you move forward, in a safe space.
Using evidence-based techniques like Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), I help clients develop healthier coping strategies, emotional regulation skills, and insight into their personal narratives.
I specialize in supporting teens, couples, trauma survivors, and LGBTQ+ individuals—especially those navigating identity, faith, family, and healing.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in unhelpful patterns. Maybe you’re struggling with intrusive thoughts, relationship challenges, or past experiences that still affect you. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, difficult relationships, parenting, grief, OCD, or life transitions, I’m here to help.
My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and solution-focused—we work together to find what truly helps you move forward, in a safe space.
Meet Our Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists

My work is informed by evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and an Internal Family Systems (IFS) lens.
My practice focuses on supporting individuals in navigating the impacts of your struggles, and seek stronger, healthier connections and a fulfilling life. I have experience in individuals coping with trauma, eating disorders, anxiety and depression, and navigating and holding space for LGBTQ+ and BIOPC communities. I approach therapy with warmth, empathy, and a commitment to providing a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your experiences and work toward your goals. My aim is to walk alongside you with care and compassion, empowering you to find resilience and growth.
My work is informed by evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and an Internal Family Systems (IFS) lens.
My practice focuses on supporting individuals in navigating the impacts of your struggles, and seek stronger, healthier connections and a fulfilling life. I have experience in individuals coping with trauma, eating disorders, anxiety and depression, and navigating and holding space for LGBTQ+ and BIOPC communities. I approach therapy with warmth, empathy, and a commitment to providing a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your experiences and work toward your goals. My aim is to walk alongside you with care and compassion, empowering you to find resilience and growth.

She's trained in EMDR, CBT and DBT.
We’re all doing the best we can with what we have to work with. Sometimes we can use some extra tools in our toolbox to support us in managing when life occurrences seem to pile up and we just need a break. Amber has experience in treating a range of symptoms, including those related to PTSD, anxiety and depression.
Amber is an EMDRIA-certified EMDR therapist and consultant, a Gottman Institute Certified Gottman Therapist, and a Certified Sex Therapist. She provides therapy to both the general population and high-profile, public-facing and celebrity clients. Amber is licensed in California, Iowa and Oregon.
She's trained in EMDR, CBT and DBT.
We’re all doing the best we can with what we have to work with. Sometimes we can use some extra tools in our toolbox to support us in managing when life occurrences seem to pile up and we just need a break. Amber has experience in treating a range of symptoms, including those related to PTSD, anxiety and depression.
Amber is an EMDRIA-certified EMDR therapist and consultant, a Gottman Institute Certified Gottman Therapist, and a Certified Sex Therapist. She provides therapy to both the general population and high-profile, public-facing and celebrity clients. Amber is licensed in California, Iowa and Oregon.

I utilize my specialized training in DBT, CBT, Mindful Self-Compassion, somatic therapy approach, Inner Child work and other Trauma-informed practices to guide your therapeutic journey.
Whatever suffering has brought you here, welcome. You may be exhausted from feeling “Never Good Enough”, overwhelmed with shame, worry or sadness, hopeless about things getting better…or just need a safe, supportive place to heal? I would be honored to help. My clients tell me they feel “heard", listened to without being judged, and better able to cope with struggles due to Narcissistic Abuse, Trauma & Complex PTSD, Childhood Emotional Neglect, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD/autism spectrum, Relationship conflict, People Pleasing, Suicidal thoughts, Borderline Personality & LGBTQ/ Diversity issues.
I utilize my specialized training in DBT, CBT, Mindful Self-Compassion, somatic therapy approach, Inner Child work and other Trauma-informed practices to guide your therapeutic journey.
Whatever suffering has brought you here, welcome. You may be exhausted from feeling “Never Good Enough”, overwhelmed with shame, worry or sadness, hopeless about things getting better…or just need a safe, supportive place to heal? I would be honored to help. My clients tell me they feel “heard", listened to without being judged, and better able to cope with struggles due to Narcissistic Abuse, Trauma & Complex PTSD, Childhood Emotional Neglect, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD/autism spectrum, Relationship conflict, People Pleasing, Suicidal thoughts, Borderline Personality & LGBTQ/ Diversity issues.

My therapeutic style integrates aspects of CBT, CPT, DBT, EMDR, and mindfulness practices.
When trauma, anxiety, or mood disorders take hold, they can leave you feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuck in patterns that are hard to break. These experiences often shape the way you see yourself and the world around you, leading to difficulty trusting others, managing emotions, or feeling at peace. For many, these struggles aren’t just about isolated symptoms—they’re about carrying the weight of experiences that haven’t yet been processed. My goal is to help you understand these experiences and reconnect with a sense of inner steadiness and hope.
My therapeutic style integrates aspects of CBT, CPT, DBT, EMDR, and mindfulness practices.
When trauma, anxiety, or mood disorders take hold, they can leave you feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuck in patterns that are hard to break. These experiences often shape the way you see yourself and the world around you, leading to difficulty trusting others, managing emotions, or feeling at peace. For many, these struggles aren’t just about isolated symptoms—they’re about carrying the weight of experiences that haven’t yet been processed. My goal is to help you understand these experiences and reconnect with a sense of inner steadiness and hope.

Our therapists use evidence-based approaches including CBT, DBT, EFT, mindfulness therapy, existential therapy, and ACT.
We are a small group practice serving children, adults, families, and couples across California, both in person and via Telehealth. We support clients with anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship issues, and self-awareness. For children, we address behavioral challenges and advocate within school systems. Our therapists help clients understand how experiences, emotions, and behaviors connect and shape their lives. We also support individuals from immigrant backgrounds navigating unique stressors and barriers.
Our therapists use evidence-based approaches including CBT, DBT, EFT, mindfulness therapy, existential therapy, and ACT.
We are a small group practice serving children, adults, families, and couples across California, both in person and via Telehealth. We support clients with anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship issues, and self-awareness. For children, we address behavioral challenges and advocate within school systems. Our therapists help clients understand how experiences, emotions, and behaviors connect and shape their lives. We also support individuals from immigrant backgrounds navigating unique stressors and barriers.

He is also trained in emotionally focused, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, structural family, and self-compassion therapies.
Lauren is a genderqueer/trans male therapist who treats adults, couples, families, and adolescents, and is especially passionate in providing resources and care to the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. He works with various clients, and while trained in a range of treatment types, he strives to tailor her therapeutic approach to each person and their unique, individual needs.
He is also trained in emotionally focused, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, structural family, and self-compassion therapies.
Lauren is a genderqueer/trans male therapist who treats adults, couples, families, and adolescents, and is especially passionate in providing resources and care to the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. He works with various clients, and while trained in a range of treatment types, he strives to tailor her therapeutic approach to each person and their unique, individual needs.

I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy among others.
I offer a genuine, straight-forward approach to psychotherapy. This approach includes identifying specific goals and the mastery of real-life coping skills: All with the support you deserve. Having 20 years of experience in the San Diego area, I have worked in hospital settings in addition to private practice. Extensive experience includes high school and college students, middle-aged and older adults. I also offer families and individuals comprehensive assistance setting up an entire treatment team of professionals (psychologist, psychiatrist, etc.). You can start this life-changing process with a free phone consultation.
I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy among others.
I offer a genuine, straight-forward approach to psychotherapy. This approach includes identifying specific goals and the mastery of real-life coping skills: All with the support you deserve. Having 20 years of experience in the San Diego area, I have worked in hospital settings in addition to private practice. Extensive experience includes high school and college students, middle-aged and older adults. I also offer families and individuals comprehensive assistance setting up an entire treatment team of professionals (psychologist, psychiatrist, etc.). You can start this life-changing process with a free phone consultation.

My approach to therapy is tailored to your needs and may include body/mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
My approach to therapy is tailored to your needs and may include body/mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.

We specialize in DBT ( Dialectical Behavior Therapy) for the treatment of especially difficult to treat issues such as PTSD, Severe depression, Eating Disorders and the like.
We have attended intensive trainings in DBT given by Dr. Marsha Linehan and her associates. DBT therapy is done in accordance with the protocol as developed by Dr. Linehan during the mid-90's and empirically validated for the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder and other issues. We are a full service DBT practice.
We specialize in DBT ( Dialectical Behavior Therapy) for the treatment of especially difficult to treat issues such as PTSD, Severe depression, Eating Disorders and the like.
We have attended intensive trainings in DBT given by Dr. Marsha Linehan and her associates. DBT therapy is done in accordance with the protocol as developed by Dr. Linehan during the mid-90's and empirically validated for the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder and other issues. We are a full service DBT practice.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby Dialectical (DBT) Therapists Searches for San Diego
- Bonita
- Chula Vista
- Coronado
- El Cajon
- Imperial Beach
- La Jolla
- La Mesa
- Lakeside
- Lemon Grove
- National City
- Santee
- Spring Valley
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.