Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Denver, CO

Photo of Brenda Lucero, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Brenda Lucero
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Using CBT and DBT, we address thought-emotion links and enhance emotional regulation.
Are you grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, or strained relationships? Despite your best efforts, do you feel trapped in recurring patterns? I provide compassionate support and insightful guidance. Let's collaborate on a holistic, evidence-based approach to facilitate lasting change. Whether navigating personal obstacles or relational complexities, prioritizing your mental health and well-being is essential.
Using CBT and DBT, we address thought-emotion links and enhance emotional regulation.
Are you grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, or strained relationships? Despite your best efforts, do you feel trapped in recurring patterns? I provide compassionate support and insightful guidance. Let's collaborate on a holistic, evidence-based approach to facilitate lasting change. Whether navigating personal obstacles or relational complexities, prioritizing your mental health and well-being is essential.
(720) 573-1923 View (720) 573-1923
Photo of Kevin Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kevin Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
My therapeutic approach is grounded in principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Polyvagal Theory.
I have a decade of experience working in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient substance use treatment, outpatient therapy, community mental health, and as a first responder crisis therapist. We all experience crisis in our lives, both large and small, and my goal is to help navigate this distress while building resilience and expanding insight. If you desire tools to navigate life more effectively, build more meaningful relationships with others and deepen the connection to yourself, I would love to hear from you.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Polyvagal Theory.
I have a decade of experience working in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient substance use treatment, outpatient therapy, community mental health, and as a first responder crisis therapist. We all experience crisis in our lives, both large and small, and my goal is to help navigate this distress while building resilience and expanding insight. If you desire tools to navigate life more effectively, build more meaningful relationships with others and deepen the connection to yourself, I would love to hear from you.
(720) 410-5264 View (720) 410-5264
Photo of Mary Hollis Schmidt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACC
Mary Hollis Schmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
My approach to therapy is holistic, client-centered, and trauma-informed, utilizing a blend of EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, ACT, and CBT/ DBT to address your unique needs.
Now accepting new clients! Are you navigating the aftermath of trauma, experiencing a significant life transition, dealing with anxiety, depression, or another mental health concern? Maybe you are struggling with changes in your current relationship or friendships, or struggling with substance use. I'm here to support you. As an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist, I am here to support you through any and all identity exploration. I am trained in EMDR therapy and have worked in the addiction field for many years.
My approach to therapy is holistic, client-centered, and trauma-informed, utilizing a blend of EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, ACT, and CBT/ DBT to address your unique needs.
Now accepting new clients! Are you navigating the aftermath of trauma, experiencing a significant life transition, dealing with anxiety, depression, or another mental health concern? Maybe you are struggling with changes in your current relationship or friendships, or struggling with substance use. I'm here to support you. As an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist, I am here to support you through any and all identity exploration. I am trained in EMDR therapy and have worked in the addiction field for many years.
(720) 790-3968 View (720) 790-3968
Photo of Britt Babitt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Britt Babitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
I utilize therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), emotionally focused, strengths based, client centered, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT).
Hello and welcome! As an LCSW therapist, I am committed to helping you find your path while ensuring you feel safe and supported in the process. My passion is working collaboratively utilizing person-centered and strengths-based approaches to explore the root of the issue and finding relief and clarity in a way that makes sense for you. Whether you are working through trauma, struggling with addiction, in the grieving process or simply needing support with a life transition or challenge, I am here to work with you to achieve your therapy goals.
I utilize therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), emotionally focused, strengths based, client centered, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT).
Hello and welcome! As an LCSW therapist, I am committed to helping you find your path while ensuring you feel safe and supported in the process. My passion is working collaboratively utilizing person-centered and strengths-based approaches to explore the root of the issue and finding relief and clarity in a way that makes sense for you. Whether you are working through trauma, struggling with addiction, in the grieving process or simply needing support with a life transition or challenge, I am here to work with you to achieve your therapy goals.
(720) 802-0947 View (720) 802-0947
Photo of Gabrielle Newman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Gabrielle Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, internal family systems therapy, mindfulness, coaching & more!.
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, and it’s completely normal to feel stuck and need help facing obstacles that seem too big to overcome. You deserve more than just getting by—you deserve to thrive and build a life where you feel empowered, motivated, and at peace. My approach is rooted in understanding, empathy, and authenticity. I take pride in building a unique connection with each client, creating an environment where you can heal, grow, and work toward the life you desire. Together, we’ll unlock your true potential and equip you with the tools and skills to confidently handle life’s obstacles and create lasting change.
I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, internal family systems therapy, mindfulness, coaching & more!.
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, and it’s completely normal to feel stuck and need help facing obstacles that seem too big to overcome. You deserve more than just getting by—you deserve to thrive and build a life where you feel empowered, motivated, and at peace. My approach is rooted in understanding, empathy, and authenticity. I take pride in building a unique connection with each client, creating an environment where you can heal, grow, and work toward the life you desire. Together, we’ll unlock your true potential and equip you with the tools and skills to confidently handle life’s obstacles and create lasting change.
(720) 782-1226 View (720) 782-1226
Photo of Jonah Shuman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Jonah Shuman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral therapies, and am happy to provide talk therapy and other relevant interventions, in addition to some couples/family therapy.
My ideal client is someone who is looking for a change and has the energy and bravery to try. People who want to break free from the patterns of thought and behavior that hold them back from living their fullest life. As far as needs, people who need skills to get through the day-to-day, and goals can span a broad range of outcomes. I enjoy helping people find a way back to their core values and recover from real low points and difficulties in everyday life.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral therapies, and am happy to provide talk therapy and other relevant interventions, in addition to some couples/family therapy.
My ideal client is someone who is looking for a change and has the energy and bravery to try. People who want to break free from the patterns of thought and behavior that hold them back from living their fullest life. As far as needs, people who need skills to get through the day-to-day, and goals can span a broad range of outcomes. I enjoy helping people find a way back to their core values and recover from real low points and difficulties in everyday life.
(303) 952-8041 View (303) 952-8041
Photo of Kelli L. Ruhl, MA, LPC, NCC
Kelli L. Ruhl
MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
From here, I integrate a combination of somatic interventions, parts work, and skills oriented approaches such as DBT, ACT, and CBT, thoughtfully tailored to each client and their unique journey.
There is magic in being known, both to ourselves and in relationship with others. When we allow ourselves to be seen through a lens of curiosity, instead of judgment, we create the space to peel back the layers of “shoulds” and inherited narratives to find our authentic selves. I believe therapy to be a collaborative process between client and counselor rooted in trust, compassion and mutual respect. If I accomplish nothing else, I hope to show my clients that they matter, that their experience is valid, and that they have within themselves the resources necessary to self-actualize.
From here, I integrate a combination of somatic interventions, parts work, and skills oriented approaches such as DBT, ACT, and CBT, thoughtfully tailored to each client and their unique journey.
There is magic in being known, both to ourselves and in relationship with others. When we allow ourselves to be seen through a lens of curiosity, instead of judgment, we create the space to peel back the layers of “shoulds” and inherited narratives to find our authentic selves. I believe therapy to be a collaborative process between client and counselor rooted in trust, compassion and mutual respect. If I accomplish nothing else, I hope to show my clients that they matter, that their experience is valid, and that they have within themselves the resources necessary to self-actualize.
(720) 538-5443 View (720) 538-5443
Photo of Samantha Thedin, Psychologist, PhD
Samantha Thedin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
Therapeutic approaches include Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Parent Management Training.
Dr. Thedin is a Licensed Psychologist at Wolff Child Psychology. She received her M.S. and Ph.D. in Child Clinical Psychology from Penn State. Dr. Thedin completed her APA-accredited predoctoral internship in child and family clinical psychology at the Aurora Mental Health Center in Colorado.
Therapeutic approaches include Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Parent Management Training.
Dr. Thedin is a Licensed Psychologist at Wolff Child Psychology. She received her M.S. and Ph.D. in Child Clinical Psychology from Penn State. Dr. Thedin completed her APA-accredited predoctoral internship in child and family clinical psychology at the Aurora Mental Health Center in Colorado.
(720) 802-4063 View (720) 802-4063
Photo of Lauren Guetling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lauren Guetling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
In therapy, I utilize a blend of therapeutic techniques including EMDR, IFS , DBT, CPT, and mindfulness practices.
Welcome! I'm Lauren, a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and EMDR certified therapist based in Denver, Colorado. With a passion for helping individuals navigate trauma, anxiety, and depression, I offer individual counseling services aimed at fostering healing and personal growth.
In therapy, I utilize a blend of therapeutic techniques including EMDR, IFS , DBT, CPT, and mindfulness practices.
Welcome! I'm Lauren, a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and EMDR certified therapist based in Denver, Colorado. With a passion for helping individuals navigate trauma, anxiety, and depression, I offer individual counseling services aimed at fostering healing and personal growth.
(720) 580-5053 View (720) 580-5053
Photo of Shannon Barfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Shannon Barfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I like to use a dynamic approach in therapy and will often use a variety of evidenced based modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, EMDR, and Solution focused therapy.
My areas of expertise are working with adults who are experiencing trauma-related responses, going through life transitions, depression, anxiety, multicultural issues, relationship issues, developing identity and grief and loss and more.
I like to use a dynamic approach in therapy and will often use a variety of evidenced based modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, EMDR, and Solution focused therapy.
My areas of expertise are working with adults who are experiencing trauma-related responses, going through life transitions, depression, anxiety, multicultural issues, relationship issues, developing identity and grief and loss and more.
(720) 797-7463 View (720) 797-7463
Photo of Evelyn J. Delacruz-Jiron, Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT, LAC, CFM
Evelyn J. Delacruz-Jiron
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT, LAC, CFM
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am licensed to practice in CO, AK, AZ and UT and I specialize in family therapy, couples therapy, parenting interventions and trauma informed care using DBT, CBT, experiential and ACT therapy.
I have a passion for collaborating with families and I am dedicated to empowering clients improve cohesion and communication, heal from trauma and rebuild trust within the family system.
I am licensed to practice in CO, AK, AZ and UT and I specialize in family therapy, couples therapy, parenting interventions and trauma informed care using DBT, CBT, experiential and ACT therapy.
I have a passion for collaborating with families and I am dedicated to empowering clients improve cohesion and communication, heal from trauma and rebuild trust within the family system.
(720) 383-4847 View (720) 383-4847
Photo of Madi Musson, Marriage & Family Therapist, ATR-BC, LMFT, EMDR-II, CiT
Madi Musson
Marriage & Family Therapist, ATR-BC, LMFT, EMDR-II, CiT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Online Only
I use different therapy approaches, including talk therapy, creative expression, and coping tools from Emotion-Focused Therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Trauma-Informed Expressive Arts Therapy.
As a Marriage & Family Therapist and Expressive Arts Therapist my goal is to help you creatively thrive! I help people experiencing anxiety, depression, disordered eating, loss/grief, neurodivergence (ADHD, AuDHD, Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder), relationship challenges, and trauma. My background is in supporting all types of individuals and relationships, including those with specific belief systems, the LGBTQIA+ community (including polyamorous relationships), medical providers & fellow therapists, and those facing chronic illnesses.
I use different therapy approaches, including talk therapy, creative expression, and coping tools from Emotion-Focused Therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Trauma-Informed Expressive Arts Therapy.
As a Marriage & Family Therapist and Expressive Arts Therapist my goal is to help you creatively thrive! I help people experiencing anxiety, depression, disordered eating, loss/grief, neurodivergence (ADHD, AuDHD, Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder), relationship challenges, and trauma. My background is in supporting all types of individuals and relationships, including those with specific belief systems, the LGBTQIA+ community (including polyamorous relationships), medical providers & fellow therapists, and those facing chronic illnesses.
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Photo of Gianna Orr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Gianna Orr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with teens and young adults and specialize in trauma, anger, anxiety, depression, and stress, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to help my clients learn skills and techniques to support more positive mental health.
A psychodynamic lens is my go-to style as I feel it's necessary to get to the root of the issues in order to develop the most effective skills. I use aspects of mindfulness, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy to build a strong therapeutic alliance with clients.
I work with teens and young adults and specialize in trauma, anger, anxiety, depression, and stress, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to help my clients learn skills and techniques to support more positive mental health.
A psychodynamic lens is my go-to style as I feel it's necessary to get to the root of the issues in order to develop the most effective skills. I use aspects of mindfulness, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy to build a strong therapeutic alliance with clients.
(303) 500-1698 View (303) 500-1698
Photo of Pamela Sterling, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LMFT
Pamela Sterling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80246
I use CBT, DBT, ERP, IFS & Gottman to help build concrete skills, enhance insight, change ingrained patterns, and improve relationships.
Are you, your teen, your partner, or your family experiencing ongoing struggles that create frustration, disconnection and dissatisfaction? Are your relationships characterized by fleeting moments of connection amidst day-to-day busyness? Perhaps you want to build skills to communicate better with others, while learning to be less hard on yourself and those around you. Or maybe you feel like you are having the same fight over and over with your partner, family, or loved ones with no resolution. Although you try to work through conflicts, you keep coming back to the same central issues, experiencing gridlock & disappointment.
I use CBT, DBT, ERP, IFS & Gottman to help build concrete skills, enhance insight, change ingrained patterns, and improve relationships.
Are you, your teen, your partner, or your family experiencing ongoing struggles that create frustration, disconnection and dissatisfaction? Are your relationships characterized by fleeting moments of connection amidst day-to-day busyness? Perhaps you want to build skills to communicate better with others, while learning to be less hard on yourself and those around you. Or maybe you feel like you are having the same fight over and over with your partner, family, or loved ones with no resolution. Although you try to work through conflicts, you keep coming back to the same central issues, experiencing gridlock & disappointment.
(720) 770-5830 View (720) 770-5830
Photo of Natasha Elliott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Natasha Elliott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Some of the modalities that I am trained in are ACT, DBT, CBT, Solution Focused, Strengths-based, and motivational interviewing.
I work with clients in a virtual setting. I prefer clients who can be themselves and focus on what they need during the session. I always prefer that my clients take care of their needs and let me know what it is that they need during the session.
Some of the modalities that I am trained in are ACT, DBT, CBT, Solution Focused, Strengths-based, and motivational interviewing.
I work with clients in a virtual setting. I prefer clients who can be themselves and focus on what they need during the session. I always prefer that my clients take care of their needs and let me know what it is that they need during the session.
(844) 485-0568 View (844) 485-0568
Photo of Chanel Nye, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Chanel Nye
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
The main modalities I explore with clients are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Attachment Theory and Brainspotting Therapy.
Do you ever feel stuck or struggle to feel in control of your life? Or do all your relationships feel the same and lack the substance you’re looking for? Or maybe you struggle to connect to your feelings and express them in healthy ways. Sometimes when we grow up around chaos, chaos feels more comfortable than stillness, leading to a life of self-sabotaging and negative behaviors. I believe that intentions matter and I believe that everyone is worthy of healing and a life that is fulfilling. If you can relate to any of these issues or struggles, then I encourage you to start your journey of intentional healing today.
The main modalities I explore with clients are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Attachment Theory and Brainspotting Therapy.
Do you ever feel stuck or struggle to feel in control of your life? Or do all your relationships feel the same and lack the substance you’re looking for? Or maybe you struggle to connect to your feelings and express them in healthy ways. Sometimes when we grow up around chaos, chaos feels more comfortable than stillness, leading to a life of self-sabotaging and negative behaviors. I believe that intentions matter and I believe that everyone is worthy of healing and a life that is fulfilling. If you can relate to any of these issues or struggles, then I encourage you to start your journey of intentional healing today.
(855) 525-5378 View (855) 525-5378
Photo of Claire Coonrod, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Claire Coonrod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
I offer EMDR, CBT, DBT, and more.
Can't stop thinking about the "what if's"? Or maybe you find yourself spending too much time worrying about what people think of you. Sometimes you get to a point where enjoying the present is difficult and you just can’t seem to shake the feeling of being “on edge.” You may even get a sinking feeling in your stomach when Sunday rolls around knowing you have work or school ahead of you. Feelings and thoughts like this may seem like roadblocks to achieving your goals; however, change is possible. I hope to support your own journey in change.
I offer EMDR, CBT, DBT, and more.
Can't stop thinking about the "what if's"? Or maybe you find yourself spending too much time worrying about what people think of you. Sometimes you get to a point where enjoying the present is difficult and you just can’t seem to shake the feeling of being “on edge.” You may even get a sinking feeling in your stomach when Sunday rolls around knowing you have work or school ahead of you. Feelings and thoughts like this may seem like roadblocks to achieving your goals; however, change is possible. I hope to support your own journey in change.
(720) 753-5510 View (720) 753-5510
Photo of Elise Salas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Elise Salas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
I am skilled in evidence-based therapies including: motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT Certified, solution-focused therapy, trauma-based therapy, and ACT.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing in adult mental health since 2014. I am experienced in providing therapy to adults of all ages and stages of life. I treat a wide range of behavioral health conditions including: anxiety, depression, PTSD, women's issues (pre-natal and post-partum anxiety/depression, infertility, loss), life transitions, and grief/loss issues. We all experience emotional challenges. Therapy can equip you with the necessary skills and assist with navigating your feelings as you work towards wellness.
I am skilled in evidence-based therapies including: motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT Certified, solution-focused therapy, trauma-based therapy, and ACT.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing in adult mental health since 2014. I am experienced in providing therapy to adults of all ages and stages of life. I treat a wide range of behavioral health conditions including: anxiety, depression, PTSD, women's issues (pre-natal and post-partum anxiety/depression, infertility, loss), life transitions, and grief/loss issues. We all experience emotional challenges. Therapy can equip you with the necessary skills and assist with navigating your feelings as you work towards wellness.
(720) 713-3295 View (720) 713-3295
Photo of Rhiana Holmes Turner - Rhiana Holmes Turner Denver Psychology Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Rhiana Holmes Turner Denver Psychology Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
For those looking to build confidence & make better decisions, I often utilize DBT, which honors both the objective situation & the person's emotional experience.
As a therapist with a Master's in International Disaster Psychology, I am passionate about supporting BIPOC and LGBTQIA individuals through today's challenging political climate. I create a warm, safe, and welcoming space where clients can feel heard and understood. My unique training allows me to offer compassionate care tailored to the needs of those facing adversity, ensuring a supportive environment for healing and growth. I deeply value a sense of humor, curse quite a bit (hope that's okay!) and value clients who want to feel grounded in who they are.
For those looking to build confidence & make better decisions, I often utilize DBT, which honors both the objective situation & the person's emotional experience.
As a therapist with a Master's in International Disaster Psychology, I am passionate about supporting BIPOC and LGBTQIA individuals through today's challenging political climate. I create a warm, safe, and welcoming space where clients can feel heard and understood. My unique training allows me to offer compassionate care tailored to the needs of those facing adversity, ensuring a supportive environment for healing and growth. I deeply value a sense of humor, curse quite a bit (hope that's okay!) and value clients who want to feel grounded in who they are.
(720) 547-2331 View (720) 547-2331
Photo of Christa Shepherd, Counselor, MA, LPC
Christa Shepherd
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
Waitlist for new clients
I combine a person-centered and existential approach with tangible skill-building (CBT, DBT), to help clients process, heal, and grow.
You don't always have to feel the way you're feeling now. Maybe you've become aware of some hurts or trauma that are holding you back from living a full life. Maybe you are going through vocational difficulties, relationship strain, or find yourself doing things you really don't want to do over and over again. Maybe things are alright but you wonder if there is just something more to life or to who you are. You're ready to make changes, or maybe just to explore what growth could be like. Welcome! There is hope here.
I combine a person-centered and existential approach with tangible skill-building (CBT, DBT), to help clients process, heal, and grow.
You don't always have to feel the way you're feeling now. Maybe you've become aware of some hurts or trauma that are holding you back from living a full life. Maybe you are going through vocational difficulties, relationship strain, or find yourself doing things you really don't want to do over and over again. Maybe things are alright but you wonder if there is just something more to life or to who you are. You're ready to make changes, or maybe just to explore what growth could be like. Welcome! There is hope here.
(720) 730-5065 View (720) 730-5065
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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.