Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Alejandra Martinez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Alejandra Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034  (Online Only)
I work through a trauma-informed approach and I have experience in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT).
If you're struggling with anxiety, panic, and stress you're not alone - it can be scary and isolating managing these thoughts. My work focuses on creating a holding space where we can explore thoughts, patterns, family dynamics, and life experiences in a collaborative format where you take the lead. There is healing in transforming our negative core beliefs (those typically and surprisingly start before age 7) and creating an updated narrative. I hope that together we can create a space of curiosity and gentleness as we unpack thoughts/feelings and learn strategies to reduce stress.
I work through a trauma-informed approach and I have experience in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT).
If you're struggling with anxiety, panic, and stress you're not alone - it can be scary and isolating managing these thoughts. My work focuses on creating a holding space where we can explore thoughts, patterns, family dynamics, and life experiences in a collaborative format where you take the lead. There is healing in transforming our negative core beliefs (those typically and surprisingly start before age 7) and creating an updated narrative. I hope that together we can create a space of curiosity and gentleness as we unpack thoughts/feelings and learn strategies to reduce stress.
(424) 842-3040 View (424) 842-3040
Photo of Beyond Psychology Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Beyond Psychology Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SEP, CGP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
You may be overcomplicating your healing, or talking in circles, when something simpler and more fundamental needs to happen at the body-level. In a nutshell, we help you overcome mind and body symptoms to achieve embodied heaven. There is no doubt: the body keeps the score. We combine traditional talk therapy with body-based practices that work quickly and effectively to transform the nervous system and bring true relief. We treat anxiety, depression, burnout, pain, imposter syndrome, trauma, career, teens, couples, and more. Our science-supported practices include EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, CBT, ACT & DBT
You may be overcomplicating your healing, or talking in circles, when something simpler and more fundamental needs to happen at the body-level. In a nutshell, we help you overcome mind and body symptoms to achieve embodied heaven. There is no doubt: the body keeps the score. We combine traditional talk therapy with body-based practices that work quickly and effectively to transform the nervous system and bring true relief. We treat anxiety, depression, burnout, pain, imposter syndrome, trauma, career, teens, couples, and more. Our science-supported practices include EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, CBT, ACT & DBT
(310) 388-9851 View (310) 388-9851
Photo of Mayra Torres, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Mayra Torres
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90045  (Online Only)
I provide individual therapy for adults, specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, life stressors, and life transitions. My purpose is to empower individuals with the tools to manage challenges in their lives. My purpose in therapy is to strengthen confidence and resilience, bringing harmony and a sense of balance to the self. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Solution-Focused brief therapy. I integrate various therapy modalities with individualization to your own unique needs.
I provide individual therapy for adults, specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, life stressors, and life transitions. My purpose is to empower individuals with the tools to manage challenges in their lives. My purpose in therapy is to strengthen confidence and resilience, bringing harmony and a sense of balance to the self. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Solution-Focused brief therapy. I integrate various therapy modalities with individualization to your own unique needs.
(424) 799-1475 View (424) 799-1475
Photo of Sylvanna M. Vargas, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Sylvanna M. Vargas
Psychologist, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
She relies on a strengths-based approach to flexibly deliver Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Dr. Vargas is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in the treatment of adolescent and adult depression, trauma, emotional dysregulation, and anxiety. She has expertise working with youths and adults struggling with suicidal and self-harming thoughts and behaviors, with the goal of identifying and aligning with a life worth living. Dr. Vargas works with people experiencing the consequences of minoritization, including racial trauma and minority stress. She is an LGBTQ affirming provider and provides gender affirming therapy.
She relies on a strengths-based approach to flexibly deliver Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Dr. Vargas is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in the treatment of adolescent and adult depression, trauma, emotional dysregulation, and anxiety. She has expertise working with youths and adults struggling with suicidal and self-harming thoughts and behaviors, with the goal of identifying and aligning with a life worth living. Dr. Vargas works with people experiencing the consequences of minoritization, including racial trauma and minority stress. She is an LGBTQ affirming provider and provides gender affirming therapy.
(424) 352-8896 View (424) 352-8896
Photo of Joy Zembruski, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Joy Zembruski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and professional clinical counselor fortunate to be based in the beautiful costal towns of Southern California. I offer client-centered therapy specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, addictions and cultural adaptation through the therapeutic tools of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and professional clinical counselor fortunate to be based in the beautiful costal towns of Southern California. I offer client-centered therapy specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, addictions and cultural adaptation through the therapeutic tools of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
(310) 872-5838 View (310) 872-5838
Photo of Natalie Claxton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Natalie Claxton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064  (Online Only)
Depending on your needs and goals, my theoretical orientation may include aspects of psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and family systems approaches.
A core part of therapy is the strength of the relationship between client and therapist. I believe in building a positive therapeutic relationship that is collaborative, safe, and genuine. I often work with clients to better understand themselves and their patterns, gain insight into maladaptive behaviors, express their thoughts and emotions honestly, learn to cope effectively with stressors, and find a greater sense of identity and connectedness.
Depending on your needs and goals, my theoretical orientation may include aspects of psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and family systems approaches.
A core part of therapy is the strength of the relationship between client and therapist. I believe in building a positive therapeutic relationship that is collaborative, safe, and genuine. I often work with clients to better understand themselves and their patterns, gain insight into maladaptive behaviors, express their thoughts and emotions honestly, learn to cope effectively with stressors, and find a greater sense of identity and connectedness.
(424) 272-5551 View (424) 272-5551
Photo of Lara Ezrin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Lara Ezrin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I utilize CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
I am a licensed MFT working with individual adult clients seeking positive change in their lives. I was training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and I believe when we change, life changes. Positive shifts such as increased self-agency and improved relationships with others and with oneself start happening for clients on the internal and external levels of their lives. Internally means clients start feeling more relief, and more satisfaction and external positive shifts mean they “get” more of what they want from work, relationships, or other areas of their lives they care about.
I utilize CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
I am a licensed MFT working with individual adult clients seeking positive change in their lives. I was training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and I believe when we change, life changes. Positive shifts such as increased self-agency and improved relationships with others and with oneself start happening for clients on the internal and external levels of their lives. Internally means clients start feeling more relief, and more satisfaction and external positive shifts mean they “get” more of what they want from work, relationships, or other areas of their lives they care about.
(323) 673-2867 View (323) 673-2867
Photo of Emily Fiedtkou, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Emily Fiedtkou
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
I pull from DBT, CBT, Gottman and narrative therapy when direct, tangible skills are needed.
If you're feeling stuck, anxious about your future, and finding it difficult to move forward in your life than I would love to chat with you. I offer a nonjudgmental space where you can be both supported and encouraged to lean into the discomfort. I provide space to process feelings and also provide tangible skills so therapy is a daily practice. I work with teens (12+), young adults navigating the complexity of launching their lives, couples and adults experiencing burn out, anxiety, and difficulty seeing their own self worth. I believe each person has their own inner wisdom and I want to help you access it.
I pull from DBT, CBT, Gottman and narrative therapy when direct, tangible skills are needed.
If you're feeling stuck, anxious about your future, and finding it difficult to move forward in your life than I would love to chat with you. I offer a nonjudgmental space where you can be both supported and encouraged to lean into the discomfort. I provide space to process feelings and also provide tangible skills so therapy is a daily practice. I work with teens (12+), young adults navigating the complexity of launching their lives, couples and adults experiencing burn out, anxiety, and difficulty seeing their own self worth. I believe each person has their own inner wisdom and I want to help you access it.
(562) 991-6816 View (562) 991-6816
Photo of Jessica 'gonji' Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jessica 'gonji' Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
I utilize cognitive behavioral (CBT), dialectical (DBT) & trauma-informed approaches, with a focus on mindfulness, holistic healing and play.
I work with people to claim internal power, and to take charge of your own story, regardless of your age. I have a special passion working with children, teens and their families as they navigate the unpredictable terrain of school, relationships, and identity development. I have worked extensively with youth, adults, and QTIBIPOC folks on life transitions, anxiety, panic, depression, trauma, bipolar, neurodivergence (ADHD and autism), psychosis, mood swings, and relationship issues. My style of therapy is not passive, we will set concrete goals and I'll help you build the skills to achieve them.
I utilize cognitive behavioral (CBT), dialectical (DBT) & trauma-informed approaches, with a focus on mindfulness, holistic healing and play.
I work with people to claim internal power, and to take charge of your own story, regardless of your age. I have a special passion working with children, teens and their families as they navigate the unpredictable terrain of school, relationships, and identity development. I have worked extensively with youth, adults, and QTIBIPOC folks on life transitions, anxiety, panic, depression, trauma, bipolar, neurodivergence (ADHD and autism), psychosis, mood swings, and relationship issues. My style of therapy is not passive, we will set concrete goals and I'll help you build the skills to achieve them.
(213) 325-1393 View (213) 325-1393
Photo of Marie Duran, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Marie Duran
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
My therapeutic style is warm, supportive, authentic, and collaborative. I integrate goal-directed and evidence-based modalities that include Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-informed approaches, mindfulness and other mind-body techniques. I am dedicated to working in collaboration with my clients to learn, grow, and thrive even in the face of adversities.
My therapeutic style is warm, supportive, authentic, and collaborative. I integrate goal-directed and evidence-based modalities that include Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-informed approaches, mindfulness and other mind-body techniques. I am dedicated to working in collaboration with my clients to learn, grow, and thrive even in the face of adversities.
(310) 776-3716 View (310) 776-3716
Photo of Alyson DiRocco Fisher, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Alyson DiRocco Fisher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
I have received intensive clinical training in DBT, CBT, ACT, PE, CPT, and ERP, utilizing these modalities for varying clinical presentations.
Connecting with the right therapist can be challenging. As a clinician, I strive to empower clients to make meaningful changes, while also helping them hold self-compassion in the process. I ground my work in evidence-based therapies, and use an in-depth case conceptualization to understand how problems are getting in the way of the life my clients want to lead.
I have received intensive clinical training in DBT, CBT, ACT, PE, CPT, and ERP, utilizing these modalities for varying clinical presentations.
Connecting with the right therapist can be challenging. As a clinician, I strive to empower clients to make meaningful changes, while also helping them hold self-compassion in the process. I ground my work in evidence-based therapies, and use an in-depth case conceptualization to understand how problems are getting in the way of the life my clients want to lead.
(310) 564-0785 View (310) 564-0785
Photo of Jennifer Bieler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jennifer Bieler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048
I use attachment-based, mindfulness, somatic & DBT therapies.
Hi, I'm currently accepting new clients. Glad you're here & please know you are not alone. Therapy is great place for any person, no matter how small or big of an issue you are going through. I see therapy like going to the gym but for your mind & soul. I specialize in working with trauma & addictions along with relationships, substance use, identity, eating disorders, mood disorders, BPD, ADHD, & ASD. As a queer therapist, I work closely with my LGBQ+ community and trans & gender diverse people. My goal is to be here for you in the way you need, support you, and help you reach your goals .
I use attachment-based, mindfulness, somatic & DBT therapies.
Hi, I'm currently accepting new clients. Glad you're here & please know you are not alone. Therapy is great place for any person, no matter how small or big of an issue you are going through. I see therapy like going to the gym but for your mind & soul. I specialize in working with trauma & addictions along with relationships, substance use, identity, eating disorders, mood disorders, BPD, ADHD, & ASD. As a queer therapist, I work closely with my LGBQ+ community and trans & gender diverse people. My goal is to be here for you in the way you need, support you, and help you reach your goals .
(925) 452-4882 View (925) 452-4882
Photo of Dr. Chris Norris, Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Chris Norris
Counselor, LMHC, LBA, LAADC, BCBA, NCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
, CBT, ACT, DBT, PET, CBT-TI, SF).
As a Nationally Certified Counselor and a LMHC in WA, I use a integrated collaborative therapeutic approach to assess and support your journey in self-discovery and healing. As a nationally recognized Board Certified Behavior Analyst and a LBA in WA, I integrate the science of applied behavior analysis (ABA) to develop concrete observable and measurable treatment approaches built to support your desired change and growth. Are you struggling with an addiction disorder? As a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Addiction counselor, let’s create a viable attainable path to recovery together. Take that first step, reach out to me today.
, CBT, ACT, DBT, PET, CBT-TI, SF).
As a Nationally Certified Counselor and a LMHC in WA, I use a integrated collaborative therapeutic approach to assess and support your journey in self-discovery and healing. As a nationally recognized Board Certified Behavior Analyst and a LBA in WA, I integrate the science of applied behavior analysis (ABA) to develop concrete observable and measurable treatment approaches built to support your desired change and growth. Are you struggling with an addiction disorder? As a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Addiction counselor, let’s create a viable attainable path to recovery together. Take that first step, reach out to me today.
(818) 351-2688 View (818) 351-2688
Photo of Nicole Woolf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Nicole Woolf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
My approach to therapy is tailored to your needs and may include body/mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
My approach to therapy is tailored to your needs and may include body/mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
(818) 293-4986 View (818) 293-4986
Photo of Montana Buss, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Montana Buss
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I pull from Dialectical Behavioral, Narrative and Solution-Focused therapies to tailor treatment to each client, adapting as I learn more about them.
Is doom scrolling or watching endless TikToks before bed becoming a nightly thing? Does your depression work the graveyard shift? Does the idea of spending time with people you don’t know fill you with a desire to become fused to your couch? I use a modern, customized approach, while letting your lived experience lead the way. I believe the best way to work together is to really get to know you.There’s room to talk about things that are challenging and whose music you’re vibing with, and everything in between. I provide a modern, customized therapeutic experience and my therapy style is person-focused and relaxed.
I pull from Dialectical Behavioral, Narrative and Solution-Focused therapies to tailor treatment to each client, adapting as I learn more about them.
Is doom scrolling or watching endless TikToks before bed becoming a nightly thing? Does your depression work the graveyard shift? Does the idea of spending time with people you don’t know fill you with a desire to become fused to your couch? I use a modern, customized approach, while letting your lived experience lead the way. I believe the best way to work together is to really get to know you.There’s room to talk about things that are challenging and whose music you’re vibing with, and everything in between. I provide a modern, customized therapeutic experience and my therapy style is person-focused and relaxed.
(323) 701-1375 View (323) 701-1375
Photo of Jessica Harris, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jessica Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I utilize Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Expressive Arts in my practice.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, certified eating disorder specialist and clinical supervisor working with adolescents, adults, couples and families since 2010. I have held clinical and management positions, working in the inpatient, residential and outpatient levels of care treating a wide variety of clients.
I utilize Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Expressive Arts in my practice.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, certified eating disorder specialist and clinical supervisor working with adolescents, adults, couples and families since 2010. I have held clinical and management positions, working in the inpatient, residential and outpatient levels of care treating a wide variety of clients.
(323) 616-1709 View (323) 616-1709
Photo of Erin Lotz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Erin Lotz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Erin Lotz, L.C.S.W., Licensed Clinical Social Worker, earned her Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Southern California, and is a well respected Psychotherapist who integrates traditional psychodynamic psychotherapy with progressive psychotherapeutic principles of Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Erin offers practical strategies to calming our "anxious minds", facilitating greater self acceptance, freedom and inner peace.
Erin Lotz, L.C.S.W., Licensed Clinical Social Worker, earned her Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Southern California, and is a well respected Psychotherapist who integrates traditional psychodynamic psychotherapy with progressive psychotherapeutic principles of Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Erin offers practical strategies to calming our "anxious minds", facilitating greater self acceptance, freedom and inner peace.
(310) 455-8286 View (310) 455-8286
Photo of Kendal Moses, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kendal Moses
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
I approach you as a unique individual with your own needs, and integrate CBT, DBT, and MI into my approaches, as well as metaphors to help make complex concepts more relatable.
Do you ever find yourself having a hard time with your thoughts? To the point where it makes life as a whole more difficult? Are you having a hard time with allowing yourself to feel good about yourself? Has it gotten harder for you to maintain your relationships? I tackle these challenges with people who come from diverse backgrounds. I want to work with you to find out what's helping you and what isn't so that you can create simple changes that bring you back to feeling more like yourself, and creating a sense of balance in your life and in your mind.
I approach you as a unique individual with your own needs, and integrate CBT, DBT, and MI into my approaches, as well as metaphors to help make complex concepts more relatable.
Do you ever find yourself having a hard time with your thoughts? To the point where it makes life as a whole more difficult? Are you having a hard time with allowing yourself to feel good about yourself? Has it gotten harder for you to maintain your relationships? I tackle these challenges with people who come from diverse backgrounds. I want to work with you to find out what's helping you and what isn't so that you can create simple changes that bring you back to feeling more like yourself, and creating a sense of balance in your life and in your mind.
(562) 573-8703 View (562) 573-8703
Photo of Bethany Kern, Pre-Licensed Professional in Los Angeles, CA
Bethany Kern
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90013  (Online Only)
I believe in a collaborative approach. Each person's journey is unique, and I tailor my methods to fit your specific needs. Together, we'll explore the connections between your environment, upbringing, coping skills, and behaviors. My toolkit draws from a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, MI, solution-focused, strength-based, and problem-solving techniques.
I believe in a collaborative approach. Each person's journey is unique, and I tailor my methods to fit your specific needs. Together, we'll explore the connections between your environment, upbringing, coping skills, and behaviors. My toolkit draws from a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, MI, solution-focused, strength-based, and problem-solving techniques.
(626) 603-8184 View (626) 603-8184
Photo of Taylor Galvin, Pre-Licensed Professional in Los Angeles, CA
Taylor Galvin
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066
While intellectualizing your issues may be helpful, I also enjoy focusing on tactile ways we solve your problems, utilizing CBT, DBT, and body work to regulate emotions and create resilience.
Welcome to my corner, where therapy is Taylor-d (get it?) to YOU! As your therapist, I'm committed to integrating evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs and communication style. As a person, I understand the importance of having someone on your team and the healing power of a good chuckle. Together, we can explore the sticky and confusing parts of your life in a safe, non-judgmental space. Whether you're facing challenges in relationships, struggling with anxiety or depression, or simply seeking personal development, I am here to provide a supportive and empathetic space for transformation
While intellectualizing your issues may be helpful, I also enjoy focusing on tactile ways we solve your problems, utilizing CBT, DBT, and body work to regulate emotions and create resilience.
Welcome to my corner, where therapy is Taylor-d (get it?) to YOU! As your therapist, I'm committed to integrating evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs and communication style. As a person, I understand the importance of having someone on your team and the healing power of a good chuckle. Together, we can explore the sticky and confusing parts of your life in a safe, non-judgmental space. Whether you're facing challenges in relationships, struggling with anxiety or depression, or simply seeking personal development, I am here to provide a supportive and empathetic space for transformation
(310) 356-9434 View (310) 356-9434

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.