Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in 91107

Photo of Natalie Loera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91107, CA
Natalie Loera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
I use a blend of mindfulness, cognitive awareness, DBT, needs awareness, and somatic practices to stabilize the nervous system.
Do you find patterns repeating in your life? Different faces but same feelings, same dynamics emerging? Maybe you leave a work situation where you aren't feeling heard, only to see the same thing happening in your friendships? Ready to transform the beliefs keeping you stuck in repeating cycles, rather than just changing the face or the circumstance? Break the chains in the chain reactions you've been experiencing and liberate your life. Return to the dignity of choice in your life by changing the beliefs that inform the way you make choices.
I use a blend of mindfulness, cognitive awareness, DBT, needs awareness, and somatic practices to stabilize the nervous system.
Do you find patterns repeating in your life? Different faces but same feelings, same dynamics emerging? Maybe you leave a work situation where you aren't feeling heard, only to see the same thing happening in your friendships? Ready to transform the beliefs keeping you stuck in repeating cycles, rather than just changing the face or the circumstance? Break the chains in the chain reactions you've been experiencing and liberate your life. Return to the dignity of choice in your life by changing the beliefs that inform the way you make choices.
(909) 639-2153 View (909) 639-2153
Photo of Dedicato Treatment Center (Intensive Outpatient) , Drug & Alcohol Counselor in 91107, CA
Dedicato Treatment Center (Intensive Outpatient)
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PsyD, MHD, CATC-V, SUDCC, LAADC
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
Our Treatment consist of a Full Bio-Psycho Social Assessment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Relapse Prevention, Drug and Alcohol Treatment, Psychoeducation, Physical Education Individual and Group Psychotherapy, Family Group, Co-Occurring Mental Disorders, 12 Step Social Support Development.
Our Mission At Dedicato Outpatient Services is to provide responsible and comprehensive Intensive Substance Abuse Treatment that will enhance our patient’s ability to achieve optimal mental health and recovery from chemical dependency. We are dedicated to treat the whole person as well as the primary problem. We treat every patient, family, friend, and staff, with dignity and respect. We are licensed by the California Department of Health Care Services and accredited by the Joint Commission. We are among only 6% in the United States with this highest level of accreditation.
Our Treatment consist of a Full Bio-Psycho Social Assessment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Relapse Prevention, Drug and Alcohol Treatment, Psychoeducation, Physical Education Individual and Group Psychotherapy, Family Group, Co-Occurring Mental Disorders, 12 Step Social Support Development.
Our Mission At Dedicato Outpatient Services is to provide responsible and comprehensive Intensive Substance Abuse Treatment that will enhance our patient’s ability to achieve optimal mental health and recovery from chemical dependency. We are dedicated to treat the whole person as well as the primary problem. We treat every patient, family, friend, and staff, with dignity and respect. We are licensed by the California Department of Health Care Services and accredited by the Joint Commission. We are among only 6% in the United States with this highest level of accreditation.
(626) 322-2931 View (626) 322-2931
Photo of Laura Reed, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91107, CA
Laura Reed
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
I have a passion for Mindfulness, CBT, DBT, ACT, Family systems and Attachment style theories, and pharmacology/education.
Hello, my name is Laura Lynn Reed, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist; Adjunct Professor at Pepperdine University. I bring to therapy unconditional positive regard, and an emphasis on mindful awareness with an overall integrative approach. I have an extensive background working with mood disorders, anxiety, gender dysphoria, and substance use/addiction.
I have a passion for Mindfulness, CBT, DBT, ACT, Family systems and Attachment style theories, and pharmacology/education.
Hello, my name is Laura Lynn Reed, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist; Adjunct Professor at Pepperdine University. I bring to therapy unconditional positive regard, and an emphasis on mindful awareness with an overall integrative approach. I have an extensive background working with mood disorders, anxiety, gender dysphoria, and substance use/addiction.
(626) 513-4398 View (626) 513-4398
Photo of Dr. Yesim Keskin, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91107, CA
Dr. Yesim Keskin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
Feeling stuck and unsure where to turn next? Wondering how to balance life's demands with self-care? Seeking strategies to navigate through challenges? I’m here to help you navigate through the issues of anxiety, depression, addictions, cultural clashes, complicated relationships, or major life transitions. My approach is primarily strength-based and I have 16+ years of clinical experience utilizing evidence-based modalities like CBT, DBT, and EMDR. Also, I am a tenured professor of psychology and director of clinical training.
Feeling stuck and unsure where to turn next? Wondering how to balance life's demands with self-care? Seeking strategies to navigate through challenges? I’m here to help you navigate through the issues of anxiety, depression, addictions, cultural clashes, complicated relationships, or major life transitions. My approach is primarily strength-based and I have 16+ years of clinical experience utilizing evidence-based modalities like CBT, DBT, and EMDR. Also, I am a tenured professor of psychology and director of clinical training.
(626) 263-4682 View (626) 263-4682
Photo of Sandra (Sandi) Bohle, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 91107, CA
Sandra (Sandi) Bohle
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFA, AMFT
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
I work from a Psychodynamic approach synthesized with Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and EMDR while incorporating humor, play, and somatic modalities to help individuals address the various challenges that life and relationships often bring.
Personal change and growth come from an encouraging, supportive, safe, compassionate, and empathetic environment where an individual can discover oneself and grow. Are you finding those coping mechanisms which once worked for you no longer are? Do you struggle to find a connection to yourself or others? Are you finding yourself still struggling with things that happened long ago and you don't understand why? Having the courage to work on one’s relationship to self and others can be powerful, deeply healing, and perhaps one of the most loving actions one can do.
I work from a Psychodynamic approach synthesized with Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and EMDR while incorporating humor, play, and somatic modalities to help individuals address the various challenges that life and relationships often bring.
Personal change and growth come from an encouraging, supportive, safe, compassionate, and empathetic environment where an individual can discover oneself and grow. Are you finding those coping mechanisms which once worked for you no longer are? Do you struggle to find a connection to yourself or others? Are you finding yourself still struggling with things that happened long ago and you don't understand why? Having the courage to work on one’s relationship to self and others can be powerful, deeply healing, and perhaps one of the most loving actions one can do.
(213) 463-1815 View (213) 463-1815
Photo of Ana Zalles, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91107, CA
Ana Zalles
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
I am an LMFT 137168 and LPCC 13474. I am a multi-dynamic and integrative therapist. I have a research background in Trauma, Psychophysiology, and Psychedelics. I am certified and trained in Psychedelic Assisted Treatments, Trauma Informed Care, as well as multiple Evidence Based practices, such as CCTP, CBT, DBT, and multiple others to help clients ages 5-65+. I enjoy expanding my treatment expertise and I am currently training in EMDR. Please join us at anaczalles.com and at thekpractice.com to learn more.
I am an LMFT 137168 and LPCC 13474. I am a multi-dynamic and integrative therapist. I have a research background in Trauma, Psychophysiology, and Psychedelics. I am certified and trained in Psychedelic Assisted Treatments, Trauma Informed Care, as well as multiple Evidence Based practices, such as CCTP, CBT, DBT, and multiple others to help clients ages 5-65+. I enjoy expanding my treatment expertise and I am currently training in EMDR. Please join us at anaczalles.com and at thekpractice.com to learn more.
(626) 605-2929 View (626) 605-2929
Photo of Sonia Nikore, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91107, CA
Sonia Nikore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
Together, with compassion & mindfulness, we'll help you gain insight & develop emotional/ relational skills from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) & Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), so you can move forward.
Maybe you are coping with a stressful pregnancy? Or grappling with the loss of one? Are you postpartum, feeling unsure, worried, irritable, sad, unable to sleep even when the baby sleeps? Or perhaps, you are further along the parenting continuum, supporting your child through the various developmental stages - toddlerhood, adolescence and beyond. Is that meltdown normal? How do I help my child with difficult friendships? Is my teen's behavior typical? How do I tackle their constant internet use? Or maybe you simply want to empower yourself or your child with healthy emotional tools now to prevent potential issues later.
Together, with compassion & mindfulness, we'll help you gain insight & develop emotional/ relational skills from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) & Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), so you can move forward.
Maybe you are coping with a stressful pregnancy? Or grappling with the loss of one? Are you postpartum, feeling unsure, worried, irritable, sad, unable to sleep even when the baby sleeps? Or perhaps, you are further along the parenting continuum, supporting your child through the various developmental stages - toddlerhood, adolescence and beyond. Is that meltdown normal? How do I help my child with difficult friendships? Is my teen's behavior typical? How do I tackle their constant internet use? Or maybe you simply want to empower yourself or your child with healthy emotional tools now to prevent potential issues later.
(626) 566-7190 View (626) 566-7190
Photo of Believe Psychology Group, Inc., Psychologist in 91107, CA
Believe Psychology Group, Inc.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
I am also certified as a Trauma Specialist, a DBT therapist & possess multicultural competency.
Are you seeking Healing, Personal Growth & Empowerment? Are you a teen or young adult (age 18-35). This period in your life has the potential to be filled with the best memories of youth and freedom but are often weighed down by anxiety and feelings of sadness. Have you experienced difficulties in being a student, an early career professional, a new parent/spouse or an artist (actor, musician or creative soul)? Now is the time to move past your past, embrace your present and design your future. Learn how to develop emotional safety, remove creative blocks, recapture your purpose and focus, and improve your performance skills.
I am also certified as a Trauma Specialist, a DBT therapist & possess multicultural competency.
Are you seeking Healing, Personal Growth & Empowerment? Are you a teen or young adult (age 18-35). This period in your life has the potential to be filled with the best memories of youth and freedom but are often weighed down by anxiety and feelings of sadness. Have you experienced difficulties in being a student, an early career professional, a new parent/spouse or an artist (actor, musician or creative soul)? Now is the time to move past your past, embrace your present and design your future. Learn how to develop emotional safety, remove creative blocks, recapture your purpose and focus, and improve your performance skills.
(213) 297-3921 View (213) 297-3921
Photo of Vanessa Espinosa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91107, CA
Vanessa Espinosa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
Trainings and certifications include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Interpersonal Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Expressive Arts and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
Therapy is a unique opportunity for exploration and understanding of one's own story, and can facilitate healing and transformation during trying times. In my practice, I work collaboratively with clients to uncover and strengthen their inner wisdom, while teaching them skills needed to maneuver through life's challenges, changes and transitions. I provide a supportive and hope-filled environment that allows for a journey of self-discovery, and helps to foster self-love, self-compassion, and acceptance.
Trainings and certifications include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Interpersonal Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Expressive Arts and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
Therapy is a unique opportunity for exploration and understanding of one's own story, and can facilitate healing and transformation during trying times. In my practice, I work collaboratively with clients to uncover and strengthen their inner wisdom, while teaching them skills needed to maneuver through life's challenges, changes and transitions. I provide a supportive and hope-filled environment that allows for a journey of self-discovery, and helps to foster self-love, self-compassion, and acceptance.
(562) 551-6164 View (562) 551-6164
Photo of David S. Wong, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91107, CA
David S. Wong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
I am trained in the following evidence-based practices: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Dialectical Behavioral Therapy; Seeking Safety; Anger Management.
The work to change and grow can be hard, but it is well worth it. I believe that the fruits of wellness and recovery done earnestly are plentiful: love, joy, peace, self-determination, self-empowerment, growth, change, to name a few. In my work, I view the whole person - mind, body, and spirit - and tailor my interventions that draw on strengths to meet the unique needs of each person. I provide a safe space free of judgment to work through issues together, a space where you feel understood and know that you are heard.
I am trained in the following evidence-based practices: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Dialectical Behavioral Therapy; Seeking Safety; Anger Management.
The work to change and grow can be hard, but it is well worth it. I believe that the fruits of wellness and recovery done earnestly are plentiful: love, joy, peace, self-determination, self-empowerment, growth, change, to name a few. In my work, I view the whole person - mind, body, and spirit - and tailor my interventions that draw on strengths to meet the unique needs of each person. I provide a safe space free of judgment to work through issues together, a space where you feel understood and know that you are heard.
(323) 909-4646 View (323) 909-4646
Photo of Stephanie Blank, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91107, CA
Stephanie Blank
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals and families on bringing healing and transformation to their life. Whether past traumas or current life transitions are keeping you stuck, therapy is a place to find support, empathy, and growth. A place to develop a practice for living each moment more fully. If you find that fear, conflict and self judgement cloud your path, I can help you find hope.
I work with individuals and families on bringing healing and transformation to their life. Whether past traumas or current life transitions are keeping you stuck, therapy is a place to find support, empathy, and growth. A place to develop a practice for living each moment more fully. If you find that fear, conflict and self judgement cloud your path, I can help you find hope.
(626) 344-0177 View (626) 344-0177
Photo of Dr. Joung-Woo John Kim, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 91107, CA
Dr. Joung-Woo John Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, PsyD, PhD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
Mental health is as important as physical health. So if you need professional help with your mind, just as you would seek a doctor for your physical health, you need to see a mental health therapist. John is passionate about working with individuals and couples on mental issues including stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, disconnection with self and others, hopelessness, abandonment, rejection, betrayal, losses/grief, self value and (pre)marital issues. I am also a Prepare/Enrich Facilitator and can help couple get the relationship analyzed across 14 dimensions including communication, finance, sex, parenting, religion, etc.
Mental health is as important as physical health. So if you need professional help with your mind, just as you would seek a doctor for your physical health, you need to see a mental health therapist. John is passionate about working with individuals and couples on mental issues including stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, disconnection with self and others, hopelessness, abandonment, rejection, betrayal, losses/grief, self value and (pre)marital issues. I am also a Prepare/Enrich Facilitator and can help couple get the relationship analyzed across 14 dimensions including communication, finance, sex, parenting, religion, etc.
(626) 900-0964 View (626) 900-0964
Photo of Joseph Martinez, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91107, CA
Joseph Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
You are seeking a therapist because you are in emotional pain. Are you struggling with an addiction – sex, alcohol, drugs, or gambling? Have you been abused as a child or in an adult relationship? Have you experienced sexual assault, violence or other trauma? Are you experiencing issues with your significant other or other relationships? Sometimes addiction, depression, anger, and anxiety can happen because of a trauma history. Treating trauma can help you get your emotional health back and free you from addictive behavior and pain.
You are seeking a therapist because you are in emotional pain. Are you struggling with an addiction – sex, alcohol, drugs, or gambling? Have you been abused as a child or in an adult relationship? Have you experienced sexual assault, violence or other trauma? Are you experiencing issues with your significant other or other relationships? Sometimes addiction, depression, anger, and anxiety can happen because of a trauma history. Treating trauma can help you get your emotional health back and free you from addictive behavior and pain.
(626) 314-5880 View (626) 314-5880
Photo of Katherine Eberle, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 91107, CA
Katherine Eberle
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
However you may have arrived here, I hope you consider this your invitation to enter a process of healing, renewed hope, and self-becoming. In therapy, we bring a sense of liberation to your emotions, experiences, and identity, and grow toward a sense of confidence to make the changes you desire. It’s my passion to see and understand my client’s experiences and to tend to your goals through an affirming, collaborative, and caring process.
However you may have arrived here, I hope you consider this your invitation to enter a process of healing, renewed hope, and self-becoming. In therapy, we bring a sense of liberation to your emotions, experiences, and identity, and grow toward a sense of confidence to make the changes you desire. It’s my passion to see and understand my client’s experiences and to tend to your goals through an affirming, collaborative, and caring process.
(310) 299-8207 View (310) 299-8207
Photo of Tina Payne Bryson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91107, CA
Tina Payne Bryson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
I'm the coauthor of The Whole-Brain Child and other books with Dr. Dan Siegel. I created The Center for Connection (CFC) to create a place where relationships, regulation, & the science of interpersonal neurobiology would guide all we do. We have an amazing team of interdisciplinary professionals- speech/language, neuropsych assessment, occupational therapy, ed therapy & mental health for all ages. Informed by cutting-edge research, and intently focused on how the brain changes, we help people discover more joy and meaning in their lives. We are a neurodiversity affirming, LGBTQIA+ affirming practice.
I'm the coauthor of The Whole-Brain Child and other books with Dr. Dan Siegel. I created The Center for Connection (CFC) to create a place where relationships, regulation, & the science of interpersonal neurobiology would guide all we do. We have an amazing team of interdisciplinary professionals- speech/language, neuropsych assessment, occupational therapy, ed therapy & mental health for all ages. Informed by cutting-edge research, and intently focused on how the brain changes, we help people discover more joy and meaning in their lives. We are a neurodiversity affirming, LGBTQIA+ affirming practice.
(626) 415-3825 View (626) 415-3825
Photo of Colleen Stathatos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91107, CA
Colleen Stathatos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
Are you feeling stuck? Maybe you feel stuck in the past or present. Maybe it's hard to feel hopeful about the future. It's easy to become trapped in painful memories and negative experiences. A negative experience could be one life changing event or many smaller events that accumulate over time. I specialize in treating people who have experienced trauma. Trauma takes many forms but always takes a toll. Trauma can make you feel overwhelmed, insecure, and hopeless. Trauma can make you forget who you used to be.
Are you feeling stuck? Maybe you feel stuck in the past or present. Maybe it's hard to feel hopeful about the future. It's easy to become trapped in painful memories and negative experiences. A negative experience could be one life changing event or many smaller events that accumulate over time. I specialize in treating people who have experienced trauma. Trauma takes many forms but always takes a toll. Trauma can make you feel overwhelmed, insecure, and hopeless. Trauma can make you forget who you used to be.
(213) 401-0305 View (213) 401-0305
Photo of Dr. Adela Gharabeki, Psychologist in 91107, CA
Dr. Adela Gharabeki
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
Are you facing life's complexities and challenges? I'm here to help. As a therapist, I support clients in addressing a range of issues—whether they are current or rooted in the past. I firmly believe that the relationship we have with ourselves is foundational to improving the quality of our lives. That is why I work with clients in helping them explore aspects of themselves that may be interfering with their growth and development. Oftentimes this can manifest in the form of unhelpful behaviors, unhealthy ways of coping, or clinical disorders. Whatever it may look like, we can work through it together.
Are you facing life's complexities and challenges? I'm here to help. As a therapist, I support clients in addressing a range of issues—whether they are current or rooted in the past. I firmly believe that the relationship we have with ourselves is foundational to improving the quality of our lives. That is why I work with clients in helping them explore aspects of themselves that may be interfering with their growth and development. Oftentimes this can manifest in the form of unhelpful behaviors, unhealthy ways of coping, or clinical disorders. Whatever it may look like, we can work through it together.
(626) 247-3248 View (626) 247-3248
Photo of Christine Kay Wong, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91107, CA
Christine Kay Wong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
Have you hit a point where life's demands leave you drained and empty —despite following all the "right" steps for a fulfilling life? Are you going through the motions, lacking passion, and being shaped by others' expectations? Have you lost touch with your true self? Is confidence replaced by self-doubt and an inner voice whispers inadequacy? Professional support can ease the struggle toward your dream life in a world expecting self-navigation. Therapy with me is like a deep conversation with a friend.
Have you hit a point where life's demands leave you drained and empty —despite following all the "right" steps for a fulfilling life? Are you going through the motions, lacking passion, and being shaped by others' expectations? Have you lost touch with your true self? Is confidence replaced by self-doubt and an inner voice whispers inadequacy? Professional support can ease the struggle toward your dream life in a world expecting self-navigation. Therapy with me is like a deep conversation with a friend.
(626) 822-8853 View (626) 822-8853
Photo of Maria Barelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91107, CA
Maria Barelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
Are you struggling at work? Maybe you're having difficulties in your relationships. Or do you want to feel more confident about yourself? During difficult times, I will help you find new ways of managing your life by teaching you coping skills. Do you beat yourself up? Therapy will teach you how to be kind to yourself. I like to do "what works". I pull from different approaches because every client is unique. My style of relating is warm and empathetic. I currently work with individuals, couples, teens, and families with issues including: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and Substance abuse.
Are you struggling at work? Maybe you're having difficulties in your relationships. Or do you want to feel more confident about yourself? During difficult times, I will help you find new ways of managing your life by teaching you coping skills. Do you beat yourself up? Therapy will teach you how to be kind to yourself. I like to do "what works". I pull from different approaches because every client is unique. My style of relating is warm and empathetic. I currently work with individuals, couples, teens, and families with issues including: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and Substance abuse.
(626) 236-4971 View (626) 236-4971
Photo of Tsuilei Lam Mace, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91107, CA
Tsuilei Lam Mace
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
When we feel overwhelmed, stressed, or stuck, managing everyday stressors can feel impossible. Therapy can help. From processing and navigating thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to learning new ways to manage stress, family, and/or interpersonal challenges, therapy can help you find a better balance in everyday life and facilitate personal growth. Therapy looks different for every individual and there are times in which personal growth can appear action-packed with significant changes in habits and ways of thinking, while other times growth is marked by staying still and acknowledging the present moment.
When we feel overwhelmed, stressed, or stuck, managing everyday stressors can feel impossible. Therapy can help. From processing and navigating thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to learning new ways to manage stress, family, and/or interpersonal challenges, therapy can help you find a better balance in everyday life and facilitate personal growth. Therapy looks different for every individual and there are times in which personal growth can appear action-packed with significant changes in habits and ways of thinking, while other times growth is marked by staying still and acknowledging the present moment.
(626) 603-8359 View (626) 603-8359

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.