Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in 94114

Photo of Liana Huang, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liana Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I am trained in EMDR, psychoanalysis, trauma-informed CBT, DBT, and solution-focused therapy to help clients develop a better understanding of any underlying issues and cope with overwhelming feelings.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
I am trained in EMDR, psychoanalysis, trauma-informed CBT, DBT, and solution-focused therapy to help clients develop a better understanding of any underlying issues and cope with overwhelming feelings.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
(415) 301-7536 View (415) 301-7536
Photo of Veronica Ghabour, LPCC
Veronica Ghabour
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I utilize versatile interventions such as IFS, CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative, and Inner Child Work.
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
I utilize versatile interventions such as IFS, CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative, and Inner Child Work.
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
(415) 936-8843 View (415) 936-8843
Photo of Eliot M. Lev, ACSW, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Eliot M. Lev
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you're interested in specifics, I offer anti-oppressive, compassion-focused, DBT, CBT, ACT, EMDR, Mindfulness, Somatic, IFS, Psychodynamic, Ketamine-Assisted, and Harm-Reduction therapies.
In the journey towards healing and self-discovery, finding a therapist who truly understands the intersectionality of your experiences is key. As a therapist and part of the trans, queer, ethnic minority, multicultural, immigrant, trauma survivor, and (dis)ability communities, I'm dedicated to honoring all that makes you - you. The uniqueness of your journey, recognition of your experiences, and collaboration will be at the core of our work.
If you're interested in specifics, I offer anti-oppressive, compassion-focused, DBT, CBT, ACT, EMDR, Mindfulness, Somatic, IFS, Psychodynamic, Ketamine-Assisted, and Harm-Reduction therapies.
In the journey towards healing and self-discovery, finding a therapist who truly understands the intersectionality of your experiences is key. As a therapist and part of the trans, queer, ethnic minority, multicultural, immigrant, trauma survivor, and (dis)ability communities, I'm dedicated to honoring all that makes you - you. The uniqueness of your journey, recognition of your experiences, and collaboration will be at the core of our work.
(415) 498-1860 View (415) 498-1860
Photo of Janelle De Veyra, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janelle De Veyra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I utilize DBT to assist in emotional regulation and communicating needs effectively.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
I utilize DBT to assist in emotional regulation and communicating needs effectively.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
(415) 877-4918 View (415) 877-4918
Photo of Alexa Enyart, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alexa Enyart
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I utilize CBT to explore and reframe negative thought patterns, DBT to equip you with coping skills for anxiety & depression and psychodynamic therapy to understand your trauma and unconscious desire and promote insight for lasting change.
Do you feel as though your anxiety and depression are unmanageable? How about feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness like you’ve hit rock bottom and are struggling to find hope for tomorrow? Once we start to unravel the details of our past and trauma we give ourselves the ability to process feelings that we have long suppressed. I aim to collaborate with you and provide tools to decrease the challenging feelings you are currently facing and achieve a more integrated and balanced sense of self, leading to emotional healing and personal growth.
I utilize CBT to explore and reframe negative thought patterns, DBT to equip you with coping skills for anxiety & depression and psychodynamic therapy to understand your trauma and unconscious desire and promote insight for lasting change.
Do you feel as though your anxiety and depression are unmanageable? How about feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness like you’ve hit rock bottom and are struggling to find hope for tomorrow? Once we start to unravel the details of our past and trauma we give ourselves the ability to process feelings that we have long suppressed. I aim to collaborate with you and provide tools to decrease the challenging feelings you are currently facing and achieve a more integrated and balanced sense of self, leading to emotional healing and personal growth.
(415) 915-0988 View (415) 915-0988
Photo of Justine Gordon, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Justine Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I draw from EMDR, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, and DBT.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
I draw from EMDR, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, and DBT.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
(415) 985-6526 View (415) 985-6526
Photo of Elizabeth Huck, ASW, DBT
Elizabeth Huck
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, DBT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I am trained in Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, IFS, ACT, & DBT, which are integral in healing by helping you address the trauma, depression, anxiety, and anger in the mind and body.
The toll of trauma, stress, anxiety, & depression builds over time, things that once seemed manageable turn into a life that's not our own, because we're stuck in survival mode. It's exhausting. As a therapist, my goal is to collaborate with you to safely navigate your inner landscape and put pieces together so you can uncover your unique abilities and create a mental health toolkit that will carry you through a lifetime. I am here to support you in working through unresolved feelings and conflicts and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
I am trained in Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, IFS, ACT, & DBT, which are integral in healing by helping you address the trauma, depression, anxiety, and anger in the mind and body.
The toll of trauma, stress, anxiety, & depression builds over time, things that once seemed manageable turn into a life that's not our own, because we're stuck in survival mode. It's exhausting. As a therapist, my goal is to collaborate with you to safely navigate your inner landscape and put pieces together so you can uncover your unique abilities and create a mental health toolkit that will carry you through a lifetime. I am here to support you in working through unresolved feelings and conflicts and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(415) 965-3781 View (415) 965-3781
Photo of John Haupert, MSN, PMHNPBC
John Haupert
MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I incorporate aspects of CBT, DBT, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) into my therapy sessions.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with extensive experience providing psychotherapy to adults of all ages. I also offer medication management to interested clients. I provide non-judgmental care for clients who want to improve their mental health and wellbeing. I am oriented towards the harm-reduction model and feel it is important to meet each client where they are in their individual mental health and wellness journey. My primary areas of interest are in trauma, substance abuse, and in working with the LGBTQ+ community. My other areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, & ADHD, among many other mental health concerns.
I incorporate aspects of CBT, DBT, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) into my therapy sessions.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with extensive experience providing psychotherapy to adults of all ages. I also offer medication management to interested clients. I provide non-judgmental care for clients who want to improve their mental health and wellbeing. I am oriented towards the harm-reduction model and feel it is important to meet each client where they are in their individual mental health and wellness journey. My primary areas of interest are in trauma, substance abuse, and in working with the LGBTQ+ community. My other areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, & ADHD, among many other mental health concerns.
(628) 232-8613 View (628) 232-8613
Photo of Silvia Escobar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Silvia Escobar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy as these modalities help me and the client develop a shared understanding of their current reality, and allow us to work together to build a path forward.
My name is Silvia Escobar and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California. I work with adolescents and adults specializing in depression, anxiety, life transitions, and stress using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I find that my style and approach is a good fit for teenagers and adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions, relationship issues, social pressures, grief and loss. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, and stress.
I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy as these modalities help me and the client develop a shared understanding of their current reality, and allow us to work together to build a path forward.
My name is Silvia Escobar and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California. I work with adolescents and adults specializing in depression, anxiety, life transitions, and stress using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I find that my style and approach is a good fit for teenagers and adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions, relationship issues, social pressures, grief and loss. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, and stress.
(415) 878-6144 View (415) 878-6144
Photo of Maryam Ashraf, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maryam Ashraf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, identity, and difficult life transitions? Do you find yourself feeling stuck and can’t seem to focus or move forward? There are many ways to get unstuck, and this is the work I love to do to help you heal, grow and live a more fulfilling life. I use an integrative approach including attachment-based work, DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness, bringing in each as needed. Above all, I strive to hold space and empathy for your life experience.
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, identity, and difficult life transitions? Do you find yourself feeling stuck and can’t seem to focus or move forward? There are many ways to get unstuck, and this is the work I love to do to help you heal, grow and live a more fulfilling life. I use an integrative approach including attachment-based work, DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness, bringing in each as needed. Above all, I strive to hold space and empathy for your life experience.
(415) 236-5618 View (415) 236-5618
Photo of Brittney Green, LMFT, EMDR, IFS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brittney Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I specialize in IFS, DBT, and CBT to help my clients to identify their internal parts and help these parts to discover healthier skills for coping.
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
I specialize in IFS, DBT, and CBT to help my clients to identify their internal parts and help these parts to discover healthier skills for coping.
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
(415) 968-1269 View (415) 968-1269
Photo of Kathlynn Gates, ASW
Kathlynn Gates
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
In my practice, I utilize CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic theory, and attachment theory to help clients experience healing that involves engaging both the mind and body.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
In my practice, I utilize CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic theory, and attachment theory to help clients experience healing that involves engaging both the mind and body.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(415) 943-5956 View (415) 943-5956
Photo of Zainab Waheed, EMDR, IFS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Zainab Waheed
Pre-Licensed Professional, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I utilize various evidence-based practices including DBT, CBT, solution-focused, polyvagel theory, EMDR, and IFS to help clients gain awareness of what is happening in their inner world and learn ways to let go of the past.
Do you find yourself feeling anxious, depressed, angry, and overwhelmed? Do you continue to repeat the same patterns of being in unhealthy relationships, engaging in harmful behaviors that are not serving you in a good way, and continuously trying to find a way to numb the pain? I am a process-oriented and trauma-informed therapist who meets clients where they are at. I draw from the psychodynamic approach focusing on bringing the unconscious to the conscious to get to the root of the issue and explore defense mechanisms that have been adapted along the way.
I utilize various evidence-based practices including DBT, CBT, solution-focused, polyvagel theory, EMDR, and IFS to help clients gain awareness of what is happening in their inner world and learn ways to let go of the past.
Do you find yourself feeling anxious, depressed, angry, and overwhelmed? Do you continue to repeat the same patterns of being in unhealthy relationships, engaging in harmful behaviors that are not serving you in a good way, and continuously trying to find a way to numb the pain? I am a process-oriented and trauma-informed therapist who meets clients where they are at. I draw from the psychodynamic approach focusing on bringing the unconscious to the conscious to get to the root of the issue and explore defense mechanisms that have been adapted along the way.
(415) 712-2559 View (415) 712-2559
Photo of Melanie Maddox, ASW, EMDR
Melanie Maddox
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
(415) 969-2738 View (415) 969-2738
Photo of Jonathan Mitchelmore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan Mitchelmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is based on respect and collaboration, and combines psychodynamic therapy with evidence based treatments (CBT, ACT, DBT, EMDR, harm reduction, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness).
I work with adults and adolescents 15 and older who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. I provide a relaxed, safe, and supportive environment to help you explore the challenges you are facing. I help you harness your own strengths in order to remove obstacles to your growth and healing.
My approach is based on respect and collaboration, and combines psychodynamic therapy with evidence based treatments (CBT, ACT, DBT, EMDR, harm reduction, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness).
I work with adults and adolescents 15 and older who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. I provide a relaxed, safe, and supportive environment to help you explore the challenges you are facing. I help you harness your own strengths in order to remove obstacles to your growth and healing.
(415) 549-1647 View (415) 549-1647
Photo of Silvia MacAllister Voermanek, LMFT, PCC, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Silvia MacAllister Voermanek
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PCC, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I specialize in evidenced-based therapies such as ACT, CBT, DBT, and somatic as well as trauma therapy.
I'm here to support your personal growth journey. With nearly 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist and life & executive coach, my approach empowers you to conquer mental health challenges and find your purpose. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, addiction, anger, self-doubt, or life's challenges, I'm here to help you embrace change. Get ready to embark on this transformative journey, and together, we'll unlock your full potential!
I specialize in evidenced-based therapies such as ACT, CBT, DBT, and somatic as well as trauma therapy.
I'm here to support your personal growth journey. With nearly 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist and life & executive coach, my approach empowers you to conquer mental health challenges and find your purpose. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, addiction, anger, self-doubt, or life's challenges, I'm here to help you embrace change. Get ready to embark on this transformative journey, and together, we'll unlock your full potential!
(415) 965-2414 View (415) 965-2414
Photo of Carrie Johnson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carrie Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I use evidence-based practices, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Is your family navigating significant changes, transitions, or a recent diagnosis or identified learning difference? Is your child struggling with self-esteem, behavior challenges, or anxiety and depression? Do you want to break a cycle of blame and resentment in your intimate relationship, or need a couples tune-up? Are you searching for more fulfillment and less stress in your busy life? These are just a few of the issues I am experienced in treating as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT79984). I offer psychotherapy for children, adolescents, families, couples, and individuals.
I use evidence-based practices, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Is your family navigating significant changes, transitions, or a recent diagnosis or identified learning difference? Is your child struggling with self-esteem, behavior challenges, or anxiety and depression? Do you want to break a cycle of blame and resentment in your intimate relationship, or need a couples tune-up? Are you searching for more fulfillment and less stress in your busy life? These are just a few of the issues I am experienced in treating as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT79984). I offer psychotherapy for children, adolescents, families, couples, and individuals.
(415) 969-9429 View (415) 969-9429
Photo of CK Olivieri Blackmore, MFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
CK Olivieri Blackmore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
(518) 269-5458 View (518) 269-5458
Photo of Marty Mulkey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marty Mulkey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I have training in and experience with a variety of approaches particularly Psychodynamic, Object Relations, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Narrative Therapy, Drama Therapy and Psychodrama.
People come to psychotherapy for a variety of reasons. Making our way in this world demands so much self-reliance and yet we are given very little opportunity to get to know ourselves well. We keep our fears and uncertainty about whether we have what it takes to survive our struggles very close to our chests. This is such a fragile place to live. Ignoring our emotions and "soldiering on" creates a life of isolation and confusion. This may manifest as depression, anxiety, or uncertainty about how to wish, desire, and create a life worth living.
I have training in and experience with a variety of approaches particularly Psychodynamic, Object Relations, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Narrative Therapy, Drama Therapy and Psychodrama.
People come to psychotherapy for a variety of reasons. Making our way in this world demands so much self-reliance and yet we are given very little opportunity to get to know ourselves well. We keep our fears and uncertainty about whether we have what it takes to survive our struggles very close to our chests. This is such a fragile place to live. Ignoring our emotions and "soldiering on" creates a life of isolation and confusion. This may manifest as depression, anxiety, or uncertainty about how to wish, desire, and create a life worth living.
(415) 801-3365 View (415) 801-3365
Photo of Cassandra (Cassie) Najarian, MA, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Cassandra (Cassie) Najarian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
My approach to therapy is integrative, involving various techniques from psychodynamic, relational, feminist, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and attachment-based theories.
As an LGBTQ-affirming therapist, I believe it is important to explore not only our sexual and gender identities but also the multiple identities that we hold as unique individuals. Therapy is a space where you can learn to understand, love, and express your authentic self, and as a therapist, my role is to support you in this journey. I believe that collaboration is essential and that by working together, we can find ways to enhance your growth, build your resilience, and promote your strengths. I also tend to bring humor and playfulness into the therapy space as appropriate – life is about many moods and expressions.
My approach to therapy is integrative, involving various techniques from psychodynamic, relational, feminist, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and attachment-based theories.
As an LGBTQ-affirming therapist, I believe it is important to explore not only our sexual and gender identities but also the multiple identities that we hold as unique individuals. Therapy is a space where you can learn to understand, love, and express your authentic self, and as a therapist, my role is to support you in this journey. I believe that collaboration is essential and that by working together, we can find ways to enhance your growth, build your resilience, and promote your strengths. I also tend to bring humor and playfulness into the therapy space as appropriate – life is about many moods and expressions.
(415) 578-6506 View (415) 578-6506
1
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.