Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in San Diego, CA
Personal Evolution Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD, LMFT
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
By using proven therapy methods (We are Dialectical Behavior Therapy - DBT specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, skills & reachable goals.
Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) specializes in working with children, teens, adults, families & couples. Our counselors not only provide the support, guidance & expertise needed for your improvement, but we also use evidenced based techniques & DBT to address problems quickly. We will connect you with the best therapist for your situation.
By using proven therapy methods (We are Dialectical Behavior Therapy - DBT specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, skills & reachable goals.
Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) specializes in working with children, teens, adults, families & couples. Our counselors not only provide the support, guidance & expertise needed for your improvement, but we also use evidenced based techniques & DBT to address problems quickly. We will connect you with the best therapist for your situation.
I use evidence-based approaches like ACT, CBT, CPT, DBT, and Mindfulness to address trauma, PTSD, and Postpartum Depression.
Trauma, PTSD, and Postpartum Depression can leave you feeling isolated, overwhelmed, or disconnected from yourself and others. Flashbacks, heightened anxiety, or struggles with mood can make even daily tasks feel daunting. Postpartum depression, in particular, can bring unexpected waves of sadness, guilt, or a sense of detachment during what’s often seen as a joyful time. Together, we can explore these challenges, create a path to healing, and help you reconnect with your strength and purpose.
I use evidence-based approaches like ACT, CBT, CPT, DBT, and Mindfulness to address trauma, PTSD, and Postpartum Depression.
Trauma, PTSD, and Postpartum Depression can leave you feeling isolated, overwhelmed, or disconnected from yourself and others. Flashbacks, heightened anxiety, or struggles with mood can make even daily tasks feel daunting. Postpartum depression, in particular, can bring unexpected waves of sadness, guilt, or a sense of detachment during what’s often seen as a joyful time. Together, we can explore these challenges, create a path to healing, and help you reconnect with your strength and purpose.
I use a mix of DBT, EMDR, and IFS to help people explore the deeper layers of their story—especially around trauma, identity, and body image.
You might be untangling your identity from family, faith, or cultural expectations—trying to make sense of who you are outside of the roles and systems you were raised in. Maybe you're unlearning old belief systems, trying to make peace with your body, or carrying trauma that still echoes in daily life. You might be questioning things you were once sure of—your identity, your values, your place in the world. If you’ve ever felt out of place in your own story, you’re not alone. If you want to feel more grounded, more like yourself, our work can help you get there.
I use a mix of DBT, EMDR, and IFS to help people explore the deeper layers of their story—especially around trauma, identity, and body image.
You might be untangling your identity from family, faith, or cultural expectations—trying to make sense of who you are outside of the roles and systems you were raised in. Maybe you're unlearning old belief systems, trying to make peace with your body, or carrying trauma that still echoes in daily life. You might be questioning things you were once sure of—your identity, your values, your place in the world. If you’ve ever felt out of place in your own story, you’re not alone. If you want to feel more grounded, more like yourself, our work can help you get there.
I’ve always been drawn to the moments when people feel overwhelmed but still want something better for themselves or their relationships. Whether it’s navigating a breakup, a major life shift, or the quiet weight of anxiety, I believe everyone deserves a space to be heard and supported without judgment.
My work in both crisis and outpatient settings showed me how powerful that space can be. Therapy, to me, is about meeting people exactly where they are, and walking with them toward something more grounded, more honest, and more hopeful.
I’ve always been drawn to the moments when people feel overwhelmed but still want something better for themselves or their relationships. Whether it’s navigating a breakup, a major life shift, or the quiet weight of anxiety, I believe everyone deserves a space to be heard and supported without judgment.
My work in both crisis and outpatient settings showed me how powerful that space can be. Therapy, to me, is about meeting people exactly where they are, and walking with them toward something more grounded, more honest, and more hopeful.
When problems come up in our lives, they often make up us feel alone. It’s not that we can’t handle the problems, but sometimes it just feels overwhelming. Often, we feel like the problems are not going away or that everybody else is living a better life; however, I can assure you that you’re not alone.
When problems come up in our lives, they often make up us feel alone. It’s not that we can’t handle the problems, but sometimes it just feels overwhelming. Often, we feel like the problems are not going away or that everybody else is living a better life; however, I can assure you that you’re not alone.
Javier Crespo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC, EMDR
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
Drawing on diverse therapeutic techniques, including EMDR, CBT, DBT, and Family Systems, I address mental health issues from trauma and PTSD to substance use and family conflict.
In my practice, I support individuals embracing life’s experiences, from overcoming challenges like anxiety and depression to enhancing family and relationship dynamics. Ideal clients seek both relief and deeper understanding from their experiences. From children blossoming in school to adults navigating significant life changes, each brings unique goals—strengthening relationships, mastering emotional regulation, or rekindling purpose. Together, we transform challenges into opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
Drawing on diverse therapeutic techniques, including EMDR, CBT, DBT, and Family Systems, I address mental health issues from trauma and PTSD to substance use and family conflict.
In my practice, I support individuals embracing life’s experiences, from overcoming challenges like anxiety and depression to enhancing family and relationship dynamics. Ideal clients seek both relief and deeper understanding from their experiences. From children blossoming in school to adults navigating significant life changes, each brings unique goals—strengthening relationships, mastering emotional regulation, or rekindling purpose. Together, we transform challenges into opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
Hello, my name is Thidar (Tina) Moldin. With over 21 years of experience, I am an LCSW with degrees in Master of Business Administration and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. Trained and certified in Trauma Focused - CBT and Crisis Oriented Recovery Services, I am passionate about helping others understand, grow and improve in this journey of life. Using compassion, self-direction, and discovery, we will make sense of what is around us and live fuller lives. My areas of expertise include anxieties, depression, and traumas.
Hello, my name is Thidar (Tina) Moldin. With over 21 years of experience, I am an LCSW with degrees in Master of Business Administration and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. Trained and certified in Trauma Focused - CBT and Crisis Oriented Recovery Services, I am passionate about helping others understand, grow and improve in this journey of life. Using compassion, self-direction, and discovery, we will make sense of what is around us and live fuller lives. My areas of expertise include anxieties, depression, and traumas.
Sandra Milstein-Ostrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Some people enjoy a structured approach and for them, I utilize a skill-based, structured Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just not yourself lately? Have you been this way for a while?
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to keep pretending everything’s fine when it isn’t. Maybe you’re weighed down by worry, whether it’s about your relationships, lack of purpose, finances, body image, or sleep. You might find yourself comparing your life to others, wondering why they seem to have it all together while you’re struggling just to get through the day.
If you’re tired of feeling tired, of carrying the weight alone, and feeling like you're stuck—it’s okay to ask for support. It's hard to go at it alone...you don't have to!
Some people enjoy a structured approach and for them, I utilize a skill-based, structured Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just not yourself lately? Have you been this way for a while?
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to keep pretending everything’s fine when it isn’t. Maybe you’re weighed down by worry, whether it’s about your relationships, lack of purpose, finances, body image, or sleep. You might find yourself comparing your life to others, wondering why they seem to have it all together while you’re struggling just to get through the day.
If you’re tired of feeling tired, of carrying the weight alone, and feeling like you're stuck—it’s okay to ask for support. It's hard to go at it alone...you don't have to!
Are you ready? If you feel that you would benefit from a therapist who is honest and approaches therapy with a sense of humor, we can accomplish a lot together! I ask that first question because good therapy involves you having a willingness to be open and talk about why you are looking at profiles here to get yourself to the next healthy step of your life, whatever that is for you personally. This is my passion; getting people to the place they want to be. I love helping those who desire more for themselves, so if you feel you're struggling, let's get the process started.
Are you ready? If you feel that you would benefit from a therapist who is honest and approaches therapy with a sense of humor, we can accomplish a lot together! I ask that first question because good therapy involves you having a willingness to be open and talk about why you are looking at profiles here to get yourself to the next healthy step of your life, whatever that is for you personally. This is my passion; getting people to the place they want to be. I love helping those who desire more for themselves, so if you feel you're struggling, let's get the process started.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I'm so glad you're here. I believe deeply that healing happens in the presence of a loving, compassionate witness and that most humans just want to be seen, heard, and valued for who they are and their experiences. I use a relational approach to therapy, that is client-centered and rooted in the belief that my clients are the experts on themselves, allowing me to show up as a supportive guide back to yourself, your truth, and your innate wisdom and expertise on all things you and your life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I'm so glad you're here. I believe deeply that healing happens in the presence of a loving, compassionate witness and that most humans just want to be seen, heard, and valued for who they are and their experiences. I use a relational approach to therapy, that is client-centered and rooted in the belief that my clients are the experts on themselves, allowing me to show up as a supportive guide back to yourself, your truth, and your innate wisdom and expertise on all things you and your life.
I specialize in working with children, teens, adults, and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life stressors. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and focused on helping you feel heard, supported, and empowered to make meaningful changes. With over 10 years of experience, I use evidence-based practices like CBT, and Solution-Focused Therapy to guide the healing process in a way that feels safe and effective.
Whether you're seeking support for yourself, your child, or your family, I'm here to walk alongside you with empathy and care.
I specialize in working with children, teens, adults, and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life stressors. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and focused on helping you feel heard, supported, and empowered to make meaningful changes. With over 10 years of experience, I use evidence-based practices like CBT, and Solution-Focused Therapy to guide the healing process in a way that feels safe and effective.
Whether you're seeking support for yourself, your child, or your family, I'm here to walk alongside you with empathy and care.
Using approaches like CBT, DBT, EMDR and EFT, we’ll work together to make small but meaningful shifts in your thoughts, emotions and actions—turning them into your personal victories.
Life’s ups and downs can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re facing unresolved pain, menopause transitions, intergenerational identity challenges, or body image concerns- healing is possible. Sometimes, we push through and get by, but over time, the weight of relationship challenges, life transitions, trauma or work, can become too much. Without a true sense of identity or belonging at different life stages, it’s even harder. Pretending everything is fine can be exhausting. Maybe you feel like you don’t fit in, or you are burnt out from carrying on. These experiences can leave you feeling anxious, drained, disconnected, and stuck.
Using approaches like CBT, DBT, EMDR and EFT, we’ll work together to make small but meaningful shifts in your thoughts, emotions and actions—turning them into your personal victories.
Life’s ups and downs can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re facing unresolved pain, menopause transitions, intergenerational identity challenges, or body image concerns- healing is possible. Sometimes, we push through and get by, but over time, the weight of relationship challenges, life transitions, trauma or work, can become too much. Without a true sense of identity or belonging at different life stages, it’s even harder. Pretending everything is fine can be exhausting. Maybe you feel like you don’t fit in, or you are burnt out from carrying on. These experiences can leave you feeling anxious, drained, disconnected, and stuck.
I utilize a systemic approach to therapy that pulls from a number of different theories including Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Emotionally-Focused Therapy, in order to meet the individual needs of each client.
I work collaboratively with individuals, couples and families to create a path toward specific goals for therapy. Throughout the years I have worked with people from all different walks of life, and I believe in the importance of individualizing treatment to each person and their experiences. I have extensive knowledge of eating disorders and have assisted people of all ages in better understanding and overcoming their disordered eating behaviors. I understand how alcohol and drug addiction, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and trauma can leave you feeling disconnected from parts of yourself and others.
I utilize a systemic approach to therapy that pulls from a number of different theories including Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Emotionally-Focused Therapy, in order to meet the individual needs of each client.
I work collaboratively with individuals, couples and families to create a path toward specific goals for therapy. Throughout the years I have worked with people from all different walks of life, and I believe in the importance of individualizing treatment to each person and their experiences. I have extensive knowledge of eating disorders and have assisted people of all ages in better understanding and overcoming their disordered eating behaviors. I understand how alcohol and drug addiction, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and trauma can leave you feeling disconnected from parts of yourself and others.
I primarily use DBT, CBT, IFS and EMDR therapeutic modalities but also use a number of other therapeutic modalities tailored to the individuals' needs.
Hello, my name is Erik J. Erickson, and I’ve been providing therapy since 2006. As a licensed clinical social worker, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and reach their emotional goals. I firmly believe that therapy is beneficial for everyone at some point in their lives, especially in today’s world, where we all face unique and often overwhelming struggles.
I work collaboratively with clients to help them explore new perspectives, view situations and problems in a different light and manage their emotions in a more adaptive manner.
I primarily use DBT, CBT, IFS and EMDR therapeutic modalities but also use a number of other therapeutic modalities tailored to the individuals' needs.
Hello, my name is Erik J. Erickson, and I’ve been providing therapy since 2006. As a licensed clinical social worker, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and reach their emotional goals. I firmly believe that therapy is beneficial for everyone at some point in their lives, especially in today’s world, where we all face unique and often overwhelming struggles.
I work collaboratively with clients to help them explore new perspectives, view situations and problems in a different light and manage their emotions in a more adaptive manner.
Nice to meet you! My name is Lisette Alder and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in SoCal and work with clients state-wide via telehealth. I am passionate about helping people navigate life's transitions with perspective and grace. My approach aims to create an atmosphere of trust and understanding where people feel comfortable sharing their innermost thoughts and expressing their emotions. I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each person.
Nice to meet you! My name is Lisette Alder and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in SoCal and work with clients state-wide via telehealth. I am passionate about helping people navigate life's transitions with perspective and grace. My approach aims to create an atmosphere of trust and understanding where people feel comfortable sharing their innermost thoughts and expressing their emotions. I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each person.
I work exclusively with Medicare and Medicare Advantage members and provide compassionate care / practical solutions for adults 65+ using masters-level gerontology and extensive experience.
Overall, I've practiced psychotherapy for over 15 years, am dedicated to fostering positive change and gently guiding individuals through transformative journeys. My approach centers on creating a safe space where clients feel heard, valued, and understood, laying the foundation for lasting change. My practice uses evidence based treatment methods and reflects my dedication to staying at the forefront, ensuring you get the best care.
I work exclusively with Medicare and Medicare Advantage members and provide compassionate care / practical solutions for adults 65+ using masters-level gerontology and extensive experience.
Overall, I've practiced psychotherapy for over 15 years, am dedicated to fostering positive change and gently guiding individuals through transformative journeys. My approach centers on creating a safe space where clients feel heard, valued, and understood, laying the foundation for lasting change. My practice uses evidence based treatment methods and reflects my dedication to staying at the forefront, ensuring you get the best care.
148509), dedicated to helping clients thrive using DBT and CBT approaches.
I primarily work with men, couples, and families, focusing on fostering meaningful connections and personal growth. My therapeutic practice addresses trauma, including generational trauma, relationship issues, and overall self-improvement. I am dedicated to helping clients navigate their unique challenges and achieve lasting change.
148509), dedicated to helping clients thrive using DBT and CBT approaches.
I primarily work with men, couples, and families, focusing on fostering meaningful connections and personal growth. My therapeutic practice addresses trauma, including generational trauma, relationship issues, and overall self-improvement. I am dedicated to helping clients navigate their unique challenges and achieve lasting change.
Drawing from CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based practices, I offer a grounded, practical approach to healing.
Depression, PTSD, and substance use can make it hard to feel connected—to others, to the world, and even to yourself. When you're caught in the heaviness of these experiences, it can feel like no one truly sees what you're carrying. My decision to become a therapist was shaped by watching loved ones navigate both substance use and mental health challenges. I wanted to understand their pain and learn how to offer the kind of support that truly makes a difference. I hold an MA in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Latino Mental Health from Antioch University (2017) and work with teens and adults ages 14+.
Drawing from CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based practices, I offer a grounded, practical approach to healing.
Depression, PTSD, and substance use can make it hard to feel connected—to others, to the world, and even to yourself. When you're caught in the heaviness of these experiences, it can feel like no one truly sees what you're carrying. My decision to become a therapist was shaped by watching loved ones navigate both substance use and mental health challenges. I wanted to understand their pain and learn how to offer the kind of support that truly makes a difference. I hold an MA in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Latino Mental Health from Antioch University (2017) and work with teens and adults ages 14+.
Hi, I’m Andrea! I provide a warm, grounded, and gently direct space for teens, young adults, and couples to explore thoughts, feelings, and patterns that may be holding them back. I specialize in supporting clients struggling with anxiety, emotional overwhelm, life transitions, identity exploration, and religious or spiritual concerns. I believe therapy is a place to process as you are, a space to face hard truths, build resilience, and stay true to yourself while finding lasting hope and healing. It’s a place to process, to vent, to cope, and to simply be.
Hi, I’m Andrea! I provide a warm, grounded, and gently direct space for teens, young adults, and couples to explore thoughts, feelings, and patterns that may be holding them back. I specialize in supporting clients struggling with anxiety, emotional overwhelm, life transitions, identity exploration, and religious or spiritual concerns. I believe therapy is a place to process as you are, a space to face hard truths, build resilience, and stay true to yourself while finding lasting hope and healing. It’s a place to process, to vent, to cope, and to simply be.
Gabrielle Loomis-Annett
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LIAC, LPCC, EMDR, CCTP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Mixed in with that is attachment based therapy, CBT, DBT, somatic therapies and mindfulness.
I work with women who have recently experienced a traumatic event and help them return to a sense of normal. I also work with women who have experienced traumas in the distant past but who have been feeling chronically anxious, depressed, out of control and/or hopeless. Perhaps you cannot remember the last time you did not feel anxious or depressed. Or perhaps your body being in stress for so many years has created health issues. Or perhaps you have turned to compulsive behaviors to escape or numb the pain such as over drinking, over eating, perfectionism, codependency, dieting, binge watching TV and more.
Mixed in with that is attachment based therapy, CBT, DBT, somatic therapies and mindfulness.
I work with women who have recently experienced a traumatic event and help them return to a sense of normal. I also work with women who have experienced traumas in the distant past but who have been feeling chronically anxious, depressed, out of control and/or hopeless. Perhaps you cannot remember the last time you did not feel anxious or depressed. Or perhaps your body being in stress for so many years has created health issues. Or perhaps you have turned to compulsive behaviors to escape or numb the pain such as over drinking, over eating, perfectionism, codependency, dieting, binge watching TV and more.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists Searches for San Diego
- Bonita
- Chula Vista
- Coronado
- El Cajon
- Imperial Beach
- La Jolla
- La Mesa
- Lemon Grove
- National City
- San Ysidro
- 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.