Photo of Marty Mulkey, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94114, CA
Marty Mulkey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 Janelle De Veyra, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94114, CA
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 Melanie Maddox, Associate Clinical Social Worker in 94114, CA
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 Brittney Green, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94114, CA
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 CK Olivieri Blackmore, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94114, CA
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 Maryam Ashraf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94114, CA
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 Justine Gordon, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94114, CA
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, Associate Clinical Social Worker in 94114, CA
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 Alexa Enyart, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94114, CA
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 Veronica Ghabour, Counselor in 94114, CA
Veronica Ghabour
Counselor, APCC
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 Silvia MacAllister Voermanek, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94114, CA
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 Liana Huang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94114, CA
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
Gaylesta, Psych Assn for Gender & Sexual Diversity
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, PsyD, LMFT, LCSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
WELCOME to Gaylesta: The Psychotherapist Association for Gender and Sexual Diversity. Our members provide mental health services including therapist referrals, education, and consultation. We offer a wide range of specializations, allowing us to serve as a unique resource both the LGBTQ communities and to other service providers. Explore our site to find a therapist, learn more about us, or become a valued member.
WELCOME to Gaylesta: The Psychotherapist Association for Gender and Sexual Diversity. Our members provide mental health services including therapist referrals, education, and consultation. We offer a wide range of specializations, allowing us to serve as a unique resource both the LGBTQ communities and to other service providers. Explore our site to find a therapist, learn more about us, or become a valued member.
Photo of Heidi Xue, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94114, CA
Heidi Xue
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
(415) 534-9538 View (415) 534-9538
Photo of David Guarnieri, Psychologist in 94114, CA
David Guarnieri
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
Whether you're seeking therapy to address a specific concern or simply to engage in a personal exploration, the therapeutic process can help increase insight, decrease anxiety and painful emotions, identify healthier coping strategies, and deepen relationships. Since finding the right therapist can be a challenging process, I encourage you to check out my website for additional information to help determine how I may be a good fit for your needs. Together, we will work to identify and nurture your personal strengths, equipping you with coping resources that empower you to navigate the challenges of daily life and relationships.
Whether you're seeking therapy to address a specific concern or simply to engage in a personal exploration, the therapeutic process can help increase insight, decrease anxiety and painful emotions, identify healthier coping strategies, and deepen relationships. Since finding the right therapist can be a challenging process, I encourage you to check out my website for additional information to help determine how I may be a good fit for your needs. Together, we will work to identify and nurture your personal strengths, equipping you with coping resources that empower you to navigate the challenges of daily life and relationships.
(628) 266-2115 View (628) 266-2115
Photo of Wisdom of Mind and Body, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94114, CA
Wisdom of Mind and Body
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
We all want the same things. To be understood, recognized, treated with kindness and respect. To feel like we belong. We share the same path to growth through self-effort in overcoming challenges in our life’s journey. Are you mastering the game of life? You are more powerful than your past or stories. Truth be told, “life is simply what you create it to mean.” Imagine yourself as the eagle that soars up into the sky with Wisdom as a compass. I can help you with self-esteem, family, career, trauma, grief, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, womens’ empowerment, life transitions, relationships, death/dying, and pet loss.
We all want the same things. To be understood, recognized, treated with kindness and respect. To feel like we belong. We share the same path to growth through self-effort in overcoming challenges in our life’s journey. Are you mastering the game of life? You are more powerful than your past or stories. Truth be told, “life is simply what you create it to mean.” Imagine yourself as the eagle that soars up into the sky with Wisdom as a compass. I can help you with self-esteem, family, career, trauma, grief, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, womens’ empowerment, life transitions, relationships, death/dying, and pet loss.
(925) 255-7552 View (925) 255-7552
Photo of Peter Geiger, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94114, CA
Peter Geiger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
You're feeling generally dissatisfied, like you drew the short straw. You make it look not too bad on the outside, yet feel unfulfilled in relationships with lover, family, friends, coworkers. You have concerns about overdoing something (drinking, working, internet), or a generalized anxiety, perfectionism, or people-pleasing. I am a highly interactive therapist. I know when to bring in humor--and when to go to the dark places with you. Together we will look at how you got here. Through identifying your beliefs, attitudes and needs around relationships and intimacy, we will find the key to unlocking your wellbeing.
You're feeling generally dissatisfied, like you drew the short straw. You make it look not too bad on the outside, yet feel unfulfilled in relationships with lover, family, friends, coworkers. You have concerns about overdoing something (drinking, working, internet), or a generalized anxiety, perfectionism, or people-pleasing. I am a highly interactive therapist. I know when to bring in humor--and when to go to the dark places with you. Together we will look at how you got here. Through identifying your beliefs, attitudes and needs around relationships and intimacy, we will find the key to unlocking your wellbeing.
(415) 786-6680 View (415) 786-6680
Photo of Brian Wolfe, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94114, CA
Brian Wolfe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I cannot imagine an "ideal" client.(s) I do enjoy working with engaged individuals, teenagers, couples and families interested in learning more about themselves and their relationships in the world. I have been well versed in a myriad of theoretical modalities Being eclectic means being able to utilize many different ways of treatment for support with an emphasis on evidence based treatment. I do not believe my clients must be in therapy forever. I appreciate setting benchmarks in treatment with achievable outcome goals. I believe most people want to feel graceful and dignified in their lives and relationships.
I cannot imagine an "ideal" client.(s) I do enjoy working with engaged individuals, teenagers, couples and families interested in learning more about themselves and their relationships in the world. I have been well versed in a myriad of theoretical modalities Being eclectic means being able to utilize many different ways of treatment for support with an emphasis on evidence based treatment. I do not believe my clients must be in therapy forever. I appreciate setting benchmarks in treatment with achievable outcome goals. I believe most people want to feel graceful and dignified in their lives and relationships.
(510) 650-1917 View (510) 650-1917
Photo of Phuong Le, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94114, CA
Phuong Le
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
Hello, My name is Phuong Le. I am a Vietnamese bilingual psychotherapist who would like to bring therapy to people who feel therapy is only accessible to just the few. I am particularly passionate about offering services to people experiencing marginalization. I have been trained in psychodynamic approaches, objects-relations theory, cognitive behavioral therapy approaches and use mindfulness as an integral part of of work with clients. I have worked as a direct service clinician, manager, Clinical Supervisor, and overseeing contracts for mental health provider agencies. I have dedicatedly career to empower and enhance the voice
Hello, My name is Phuong Le. I am a Vietnamese bilingual psychotherapist who would like to bring therapy to people who feel therapy is only accessible to just the few. I am particularly passionate about offering services to people experiencing marginalization. I have been trained in psychodynamic approaches, objects-relations theory, cognitive behavioral therapy approaches and use mindfulness as an integral part of of work with clients. I have worked as a direct service clinician, manager, Clinical Supervisor, and overseeing contracts for mental health provider agencies. I have dedicatedly career to empower and enhance the voice
(341) 766-0650 View (341) 766-0650
Photo of Sylvia Khromina, Psychologist in 94114, CA
Sylvia Khromina
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I love helping adults who are ready to make a change and want to address: trauma, relationship difficulties, issues with food and body image, chronic stress, anxiety, panic, or depression through building tangible tools and mindfulness-based skills. I welcome clients of diverse backgrounds and seek to provide respectful and culturally sensitive services to all. As an immigrant myself, I have a special appreciation for the experience of first and second generation immigrants. My approach draws from mindfulness, body-oriented interventions, parts work, evidence-based modalities, advances in neuroscience, and attachment research.
I love helping adults who are ready to make a change and want to address: trauma, relationship difficulties, issues with food and body image, chronic stress, anxiety, panic, or depression through building tangible tools and mindfulness-based skills. I welcome clients of diverse backgrounds and seek to provide respectful and culturally sensitive services to all. As an immigrant myself, I have a special appreciation for the experience of first and second generation immigrants. My approach draws from mindfulness, body-oriented interventions, parts work, evidence-based modalities, advances in neuroscience, and attachment research.
(415) 463-1536 View (415) 463-1536
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.