Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Nipomo, CA

Photo of Christopher Canclini, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nipomo, CA
Christopher Canclini
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nipomo, CA 93444  (Online Only)
Areas of Specialization include Children, Teens, Families, Relationships & Marriage - Parenting with Love & Logic - Teens and Adults struggling with Depression - Anxiety - Stress - Physical/ Sexual Abuse - Drug and Alcohol Abuse / Addiction - Aspergers (Using DBT) and Mood Disorders.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, relationships or family can feel broken or full of tension and fighting. Sometimes in life we can feel disconnected and struggle to find joy, peace, calm and serenity. Sometimes struggles, problems or relationship issues begin to disrupt our thoughts and daily life and damage relationships. If you are looking for hope in your life, family, and/or relationships... If you are tired of the anxiety, depression, fighting and tension with your partner, family or teens... if you feel like you've lost control it's time to seek help and therapy. I offer Tele Health in CA and TN.
Areas of Specialization include Children, Teens, Families, Relationships & Marriage - Parenting with Love & Logic - Teens and Adults struggling with Depression - Anxiety - Stress - Physical/ Sexual Abuse - Drug and Alcohol Abuse / Addiction - Aspergers (Using DBT) and Mood Disorders.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, relationships or family can feel broken or full of tension and fighting. Sometimes in life we can feel disconnected and struggle to find joy, peace, calm and serenity. Sometimes struggles, problems or relationship issues begin to disrupt our thoughts and daily life and damage relationships. If you are looking for hope in your life, family, and/or relationships... If you are tired of the anxiety, depression, fighting and tension with your partner, family or teens... if you feel like you've lost control it's time to seek help and therapy. I offer Tele Health in CA and TN.
(805) 395-4375 View (805) 395-4375
Photo of Beyond Behavior Consulting in Nipomo, CA
Beyond Behavior Consulting
MS, BCBA, ADHD-, CCSP
Verified Verified
Nipomo, CA 93444
How did we end up here? Whether you're a parent or a student, stress is through the roof. Negativity and disappointments just keep pouring in. Everyone’s on edge, frustrated, and fed up with constant letdowns. It feels like you're at your breaking point. Despite countless meetings and efforts, nothing seems to improve. It's someone’s future and happiness at risk, and you're fresh out of ideas and patience. Doubt clouds your mind, wondering if things will ever get easier. You've been stuck in this crazy whirlwind of setbacks for what feels like an eternity, feeling lost because the help you've received hasn't made much difference.
How did we end up here? Whether you're a parent or a student, stress is through the roof. Negativity and disappointments just keep pouring in. Everyone’s on edge, frustrated, and fed up with constant letdowns. It feels like you're at your breaking point. Despite countless meetings and efforts, nothing seems to improve. It's someone’s future and happiness at risk, and you're fresh out of ideas and patience. Doubt clouds your mind, wondering if things will ever get easier. You've been stuck in this crazy whirlwind of setbacks for what feels like an eternity, feeling lost because the help you've received hasn't made much difference.
(805) 330-3572 View (805) 330-3572
Photo of Marie A Chaney, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nipomo, CA
Marie A Chaney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nipomo, CA 93444
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating survivors! So many of us have endured abuse, trauma or self induced addictions. Many of us are haunted by our past or stuck in our current situations. How do we balance our hectic lives emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually? How do we find peace, happiness and fulfillment, or at least the absence of anxiety and depression? If you are not happy with your life, sometimes a little help is all it takes. Let me assist you in doing more than just surviving, but in thriving and finding your best life!
I specialize in treating survivors! So many of us have endured abuse, trauma or self induced addictions. Many of us are haunted by our past or stuck in our current situations. How do we balance our hectic lives emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually? How do we find peace, happiness and fulfillment, or at least the absence of anxiety and depression? If you are not happy with your life, sometimes a little help is all it takes. Let me assist you in doing more than just surviving, but in thriving and finding your best life!
(805) 420-1487 View (805) 420-1487
Photo of Sally Dutton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nipomo, CA
Sally Dutton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nipomo, CA 93444
Accepting NEW Clients: In-person and telehealth services available.
Accepting NEW Clients: In-person and telehealth services available.
(805) 209-0597 View (805) 209-0597
Photo of Tammy J Dobbs, Psychologist in Nipomo, CA
Tammy J Dobbs
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Nipomo, CA 93444
I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering evidence-based treatment for anxiety and related disorders, attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder, and autism spectrum disorder, with children, teens, and their parents. My framework is based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Applied Behavior Analysis.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering evidence-based treatment for anxiety and related disorders, attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder, and autism spectrum disorder, with children, teens, and their parents. My framework is based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Applied Behavior Analysis.
(805) 719-7905 View (805) 719-7905
Photo of Leslie R Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nipomo, CA
Leslie R Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Nipomo, CA 93444
Therapy is a process of healing, growth and change. The aim is to achieve lasting growth by helping you find ways of seeing, thinking and feeling that leave you more capable and prosperous. My passion is to help children, teens, couples and adults build on their strengths to reach their full potential. My style is compassionate, nonjudgmental and interactive.
Therapy is a process of healing, growth and change. The aim is to achieve lasting growth by helping you find ways of seeing, thinking and feeling that leave you more capable and prosperous. My passion is to help children, teens, couples and adults build on their strengths to reach their full potential. My style is compassionate, nonjudgmental and interactive.
(805) 307-7971 View (805) 307-7971
Photo of Jonathan Gee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nipomo, CA
Jonathan Gee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nipomo, CA 93444
Now accepting new clients! I believe that every person strives to find meaning and fulfillment in life, and I consider myself privileged to help others walk that journey. As a licensed therapist, I have worked with clients with diverse backgrounds and a range of issues--from relational struggles to severe and persistent mental illness. My treatment approach is collaborative in that I work with you, the expert of your own story, to identify goals, personal strengths, and specific strategies you can employ. My hope is that you will find therapy to be transformative and empowering, giving you tools you can use throughout life.
Now accepting new clients! I believe that every person strives to find meaning and fulfillment in life, and I consider myself privileged to help others walk that journey. As a licensed therapist, I have worked with clients with diverse backgrounds and a range of issues--from relational struggles to severe and persistent mental illness. My treatment approach is collaborative in that I work with you, the expert of your own story, to identify goals, personal strengths, and specific strategies you can employ. My hope is that you will find therapy to be transformative and empowering, giving you tools you can use throughout life.
(805) 920-8953 View (805) 920-8953
Photo of Erica Tadeo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nipomo, CA
Erica Tadeo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nipomo, CA 93444
Therapy can be a powerful tool to overcome life’s obstacles. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping others navigate through life by achieving their goals and living happy, healthy, rewarding lives. Since 2017, I have worked with diverse populations ranging from children, adolescents, young adults, older adults, and families. I have experience working on a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, relational issues, life transitions, stress management, behavioral disorders, and personal growth. The best way to help and support others through positive growth is with collaboration and compassion.
Therapy can be a powerful tool to overcome life’s obstacles. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping others navigate through life by achieving their goals and living happy, healthy, rewarding lives. Since 2017, I have worked with diverse populations ranging from children, adolescents, young adults, older adults, and families. I have experience working on a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, relational issues, life transitions, stress management, behavioral disorders, and personal growth. The best way to help and support others through positive growth is with collaboration and compassion.
(424) 622-5724 View (424) 622-5724
Photo of Ana Champagne, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nipomo, CA
Ana Champagne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nipomo, CA 93444
Waitlist for new clients
It's not uncommon for you to go through periods where you feel disconnected or unsure of your emotions. It's important to take the time to reflect on your feelings and communicate openly about your concerns. Seeking support from a therapist who has experience in relationship counseling can provide you with the tools and guidance needed to address these issues. I offer a safe and secure space to explore your feelings and work through challenges. With years of experience, I can help you find solutions, gain hope, and achieve new insights to navigate your current situation and strengthen your relationships.
It's not uncommon for you to go through periods where you feel disconnected or unsure of your emotions. It's important to take the time to reflect on your feelings and communicate openly about your concerns. Seeking support from a therapist who has experience in relationship counseling can provide you with the tools and guidance needed to address these issues. I offer a safe and secure space to explore your feelings and work through challenges. With years of experience, I can help you find solutions, gain hope, and achieve new insights to navigate your current situation and strengthen your relationships.
(805) 600-8784 View (805) 600-8784

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rebecca Panarra, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Nipomo, CA
Rebecca Panarra
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, APCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Rooted in compassion, my approach integrates evidence-based modalities like CBT and DBT.
When working together, my intention is to provide a space filled with compassion, curiosity and collaboration with my clients. I offer a diverse range of skills and experiences within a warm and welcoming environment. I enjoy working with individuals of diverse ages, couples and families from various cultural backgrounds. I tailor a range of approaches to meet your unique needs and through these techniques, I empower clients to challenge unhelpful thought patterns, fostering personal growth and resilience.
Rooted in compassion, my approach integrates evidence-based modalities like CBT and DBT.
When working together, my intention is to provide a space filled with compassion, curiosity and collaboration with my clients. I offer a diverse range of skills and experiences within a warm and welcoming environment. I enjoy working with individuals of diverse ages, couples and families from various cultural backgrounds. I tailor a range of approaches to meet your unique needs and through these techniques, I empower clients to challenge unhelpful thought patterns, fostering personal growth and resilience.
(805) 394-1628 View (805) 394-1628
Photo of Rebecca Velasquez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nipomo, CA
Rebecca Velasquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Anxious or burned out? Seeking greater life purpose rather than just getting by in life? Time to step into your best, most authentic self! For over 15+ years, Rebecca has treated teens & adult clients with: anxiety, college/life transitions, pre-postpartum issues, addiction recovery, parenting issues, etc. Rebecca is solution-focused & psychodynamic in her approach and utilize various modalities including CBT/DBT tools, mindfulness, and creative body-based approaches. Whether you are a high school/college student, career professional, parent or spouse, being an adult can often feel stressful and challenging. Rebecca can help.
Anxious or burned out? Seeking greater life purpose rather than just getting by in life? Time to step into your best, most authentic self! For over 15+ years, Rebecca has treated teens & adult clients with: anxiety, college/life transitions, pre-postpartum issues, addiction recovery, parenting issues, etc. Rebecca is solution-focused & psychodynamic in her approach and utilize various modalities including CBT/DBT tools, mindfulness, and creative body-based approaches. Whether you are a high school/college student, career professional, parent or spouse, being an adult can often feel stressful and challenging. Rebecca can help.
(805) 272-7898 View (805) 272-7898
Photo of Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling , Marriage & Family Therapist in Nipomo, CA
Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
I have enjoyed helping clients of all ages, for 30 yrs, utilizing DBT, Family systems, & Cognitive education.
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
I have enjoyed helping clients of all ages, for 30 yrs, utilizing DBT, Family systems, & Cognitive education.
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
(805) 876-9092 View (805) 876-9092
Photo of Allyson Thompson-Knox, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nipomo, CA
Allyson Thompson-Knox
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420  (Online Only)
I use a combination of modalities, such as CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness, that I adjust to work best for you and your goals.
Are you looking for a change or a different perspective? You are here for a reason and looking for help! I want to help you find the answers you are searching for, develop new ways to handle situations and feelings, and support you in creating the change you want! Let us begin this journey together!
I use a combination of modalities, such as CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness, that I adjust to work best for you and your goals.
Are you looking for a change or a different perspective? You are here for a reason and looking for help! I want to help you find the answers you are searching for, develop new ways to handle situations and feelings, and support you in creating the change you want! Let us begin this journey together!
(805) 953-8936 View (805) 953-8936
Photo of Coraline Sylvie Robinson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nipomo, CA
Coraline Sylvie Robinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Maria, CA 93454
I have spent most of my time in evidenced-based work (CBT, DBT, Trauma Informed Care.
You have come here for a reason…maybe you’d like to make a change, receive encouragement, find your strengths or share your vulnerabilities; maybe you don’t know the reason. I can help you voice your thoughts and feelings, meeting you with curiosity and acceptance. I can accompany you in a transition or struggle so you can manage more peacefully. I can also offer direction, effective tools and solutions for specific problems such as addictive tendencies, harmful habits, anxiety, depression, relationship conflict and emotional dysregulation.
I have spent most of my time in evidenced-based work (CBT, DBT, Trauma Informed Care.
You have come here for a reason…maybe you’d like to make a change, receive encouragement, find your strengths or share your vulnerabilities; maybe you don’t know the reason. I can help you voice your thoughts and feelings, meeting you with curiosity and acceptance. I can accompany you in a transition or struggle so you can manage more peacefully. I can also offer direction, effective tools and solutions for specific problems such as addictive tendencies, harmful habits, anxiety, depression, relationship conflict and emotional dysregulation.
(805) 360-4649 View (805) 360-4649
Photo of Mai Timberlake, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nipomo, CA
Mai Timberlake
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Santa Maria, CA 93454
I work with adults and teens struggling with depression, anxiety, substance dependence, life transitions, trauma, and relationship concerns. I have training in DBT and Somatic Psychotherapy. I enjoy working with LGBTQ+ and am passionate about viewing therapy through a cultural lens. As a Gottman trained couples therapist, I am skilled in conflict management and spend a lot of time teaching couples new tools to communicate more effectively. One of the most common relationship challenges are changes in intimacy, so I help many people, both individually and those in relationships, learn how to reconnect both physically and emotionally.
I work with adults and teens struggling with depression, anxiety, substance dependence, life transitions, trauma, and relationship concerns. I have training in DBT and Somatic Psychotherapy. I enjoy working with LGBTQ+ and am passionate about viewing therapy through a cultural lens. As a Gottman trained couples therapist, I am skilled in conflict management and spend a lot of time teaching couples new tools to communicate more effectively. One of the most common relationship challenges are changes in intimacy, so I help many people, both individually and those in relationships, learn how to reconnect both physically and emotionally.
(805) 301-6833 View (805) 301-6833
Photo of Benny R Martin, Psychologist in Nipomo, CA
Benny R Martin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
To this end, I work utilizing cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and interpersonal process therapy--an integrated therapy combining CBT with humanistic/relational and psychodynamic techniques.
Do you experience depression, anxiety, or have trouble with powerful emotions, that seem to interfere with your life goals? You will benefit from my approach to therapy. Perhaps, you feel overwhelmed and uncertain of what to do. Together, we could explore your problems and issues and find effective solutions. I believe change begins with acceptance. You are truly unique. Lets bring harmony to your thoughts, feelings and behaviors to help "You" be your very best "You"! Please feel free to call or email me, so we can talk.
To this end, I work utilizing cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and interpersonal process therapy--an integrated therapy combining CBT with humanistic/relational and psychodynamic techniques.
Do you experience depression, anxiety, or have trouble with powerful emotions, that seem to interfere with your life goals? You will benefit from my approach to therapy. Perhaps, you feel overwhelmed and uncertain of what to do. Together, we could explore your problems and issues and find effective solutions. I believe change begins with acceptance. You are truly unique. Lets bring harmony to your thoughts, feelings and behaviors to help "You" be your very best "You"! Please feel free to call or email me, so we can talk.
(805) 467-7168 View (805) 467-7168
Photo of Ellen Morgan Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nipomo, CA
Ellen Morgan Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Utilizing a range of different modalities (including DBT, ACT, and trauma-focused) I am passionate about supporting people to live with less fear and more authenticity.
I am a passionate nature enthusiast and Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are interested in furthering their development and reaching a deeper understanding of their own, authentic being. I believe that we are more than our emotions and behaviors–we are complex people that require introspection and the honor of a unique and individualized path to healing. Through the exploration of stories and patterns (both current and past), I assist clients in coming into a deeper understanding and ease with the self.
Utilizing a range of different modalities (including DBT, ACT, and trauma-focused) I am passionate about supporting people to live with less fear and more authenticity.
I am a passionate nature enthusiast and Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are interested in furthering their development and reaching a deeper understanding of their own, authentic being. I believe that we are more than our emotions and behaviors–we are complex people that require introspection and the honor of a unique and individualized path to healing. Through the exploration of stories and patterns (both current and past), I assist clients in coming into a deeper understanding and ease with the self.
(805) 303-5480 View (805) 303-5480
Photo of Ioana B Cebulla, Psychologist in Nipomo, CA
Ioana B Cebulla
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Maria, CA 93455
I have completed the comprehensive CBT, DBT and ACT trainings, as well as specialized training for the treatment of OCD and related disorders (ERP), Anxiety and related disorders (exposure-based CBT), Depression (CBT, ACT Behavioral Activation), PTSD (CPT and PE), Chronic Pain (CBT-CP), insomnia (CBT-I), and psychosis (CBT).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering evidence-based treatment for anxiety and related disorders, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, trauma and other stress related disorders, mood disorders, well as psychosis. My frame of work is based on CBT, including mindfulness based approach, as well as DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to enhance distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), which is a values-based CBT focusing on willingness, commitment, and valued-action towards a meaningful, fulfilling, and vital life.
I have completed the comprehensive CBT, DBT and ACT trainings, as well as specialized training for the treatment of OCD and related disorders (ERP), Anxiety and related disorders (exposure-based CBT), Depression (CBT, ACT Behavioral Activation), PTSD (CPT and PE), Chronic Pain (CBT-CP), insomnia (CBT-I), and psychosis (CBT).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering evidence-based treatment for anxiety and related disorders, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, trauma and other stress related disorders, mood disorders, well as psychosis. My frame of work is based on CBT, including mindfulness based approach, as well as DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to enhance distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), which is a values-based CBT focusing on willingness, commitment, and valued-action towards a meaningful, fulfilling, and vital life.
(805) 354-6000 View (805) 354-6000
Photo of Christina Murphy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nipomo, CA
Christina Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
How am I unique? I am an Asian American, faith-based (Christian) therapist offering client-centered psychotherapy rooted in evidence-based treatment modalities including but not limited to DBT, trauma-focused CBT, and solution-focused brief therapy.
Are you stressed out, tired, unmotivated, restless, unable to control your worry, sad, overwhelmed, irritable, angry, or lonely? You do not have to suffer in silence alone. I am here to listen without judgment. Are you struggling with unhealthy relationships, boundaries, or difficulty saying no or asking for help? I am here to help you better manage your relationships, set boundaries, and learn to ask for what you need/want/desire most. Are you your own worst enemy? I am here to help you improve your self-worth, and self-talk by challenging the inner, critical voice with a more compassionate voice.
How am I unique? I am an Asian American, faith-based (Christian) therapist offering client-centered psychotherapy rooted in evidence-based treatment modalities including but not limited to DBT, trauma-focused CBT, and solution-focused brief therapy.
Are you stressed out, tired, unmotivated, restless, unable to control your worry, sad, overwhelmed, irritable, angry, or lonely? You do not have to suffer in silence alone. I am here to listen without judgment. Are you struggling with unhealthy relationships, boundaries, or difficulty saying no or asking for help? I am here to help you better manage your relationships, set boundaries, and learn to ask for what you need/want/desire most. Are you your own worst enemy? I am here to help you improve your self-worth, and self-talk by challenging the inner, critical voice with a more compassionate voice.
(805) 515-3993 View (805) 515-3993
Photo of Aleksandra Marinovic, Psychologist in Nipomo, CA
Aleksandra Marinovic
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
My approach includes CBT, family systems, DBT, and positive psychology treatment methods.
Thank you for considering me as a potential partner in your journey of healing & self-discovery. I have over 14 yrs. of clinical experience in the mental health field working primarily with adults & college-age students struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, family/relationship problems, trauma, life-transitions, personal growth, & self-acceptance. I was born and raised in Europe & am open to also working with clients who are from a wide range of countries & are experiencing difficulties in adjusting to life in the U.S. I am warm, caring, non-judgmental, & able to provide you a safe space to address today's stressors.
My approach includes CBT, family systems, DBT, and positive psychology treatment methods.
Thank you for considering me as a potential partner in your journey of healing & self-discovery. I have over 14 yrs. of clinical experience in the mental health field working primarily with adults & college-age students struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, family/relationship problems, trauma, life-transitions, personal growth, & self-acceptance. I was born and raised in Europe & am open to also working with clients who are from a wide range of countries & are experiencing difficulties in adjusting to life in the U.S. I am warm, caring, non-judgmental, & able to provide you a safe space to address today's stressors.
(858) 434-8137 View (858) 434-8137

See more therapy options for Nipomo

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.