Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Aaron Trinh, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Aaron Trinh
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is grounded in well-established, evidence-based psychological approaches including: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Change is an inevitable challenge we face, particularly when it is unexpected. Sometimes, this challenge can be difficult to cope with, and can develop into anxiety, depression, or stress-induced physiological symptoms. I enjoy helping people who are trying to adjust to change, whether it be at work or in their relationships. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I utilize a personalized approach to help you make the adjustments necessary to overcome stress and anxiety. I will work with you collaboratively to clarify your goals and find a treatment approach that will work best.
My approach is grounded in well-established, evidence-based psychological approaches including: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Change is an inevitable challenge we face, particularly when it is unexpected. Sometimes, this challenge can be difficult to cope with, and can develop into anxiety, depression, or stress-induced physiological symptoms. I enjoy helping people who are trying to adjust to change, whether it be at work or in their relationships. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I utilize a personalized approach to help you make the adjustments necessary to overcome stress and anxiety. I will work with you collaboratively to clarify your goals and find a treatment approach that will work best.
(628) 200-3644 View (628) 200-3644
Photo of Janelle De Veyra, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, 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 Cassandra (Cassie) Najarian, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Cassandra (Cassie) Najarian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
My approach to therapy is integrative, involving various techniques from psychodynamic, relational, feminist, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and attachment-based theories.
Therapy is a space where you can learn to understand, love, and express your authentic self, and as a therapist, my role is to support you in this journey. I believe that collaboration is essential and that by working together, we can find ways to enhance your growth, build your resilience, and promote your strengths. I also tend to bring humor and playfulness into the therapy space as appropriate – life is about many moods and expressions. I specialize in working with sexual and gender diversity, multiculturalism, anxiety, improving communication and relationships, life transitions, and personal and career growth/identity.
My approach to therapy is integrative, involving various techniques from psychodynamic, relational, feminist, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and attachment-based theories.
Therapy is a space where you can learn to understand, love, and express your authentic self, and as a therapist, my role is to support you in this journey. I believe that collaboration is essential and that by working together, we can find ways to enhance your growth, build your resilience, and promote your strengths. I also tend to bring humor and playfulness into the therapy space as appropriate – life is about many moods and expressions. I specialize in working with sexual and gender diversity, multiculturalism, anxiety, improving communication and relationships, life transitions, and personal and career growth/identity.
(415) 578-6506 View (415) 578-6506
Photo of Sandra Chu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Sandra Chu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
I utilize an integrative approach that draws upon evidenced-based modalities which include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and Psychodynamic approaches.
I believe therapy is a journey that can foster healing, change, and personal growth. My goal is to provide a compassionate, collaborative, and safe therapeutic space that allows for vulnerability, healing, and transformation. I have over 17 years of clinical experience helping individuals work through depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions, stress, and relationship issues.
I utilize an integrative approach that draws upon evidenced-based modalities which include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and Psychodynamic approaches.
I believe therapy is a journey that can foster healing, change, and personal growth. My goal is to provide a compassionate, collaborative, and safe therapeutic space that allows for vulnerability, healing, and transformation. I have over 17 years of clinical experience helping individuals work through depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions, stress, and relationship issues.
(415) 909-5047 View (415) 909-5047
Photo of Alexa Enyart, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, 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 Jenifer Butera, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jenifer Butera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
I draw on mindfulness-based and trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Psychodynamic, and Interpersonal treatment therapies.
My approach to therapy is client-centered, with mindful tending to each client's psychological space, exploring answers to problems, and discovering how to respond most effectively to changes. I am person-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based in my approach, and I work with all mental health concerns in adults, especially with trauma, anxiety, work-related stress, disordered thinking, personality disorders, and depression.
I draw on mindfulness-based and trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Psychodynamic, and Interpersonal treatment therapies.
My approach to therapy is client-centered, with mindful tending to each client's psychological space, exploring answers to problems, and discovering how to respond most effectively to changes. I am person-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based in my approach, and I work with all mental health concerns in adults, especially with trauma, anxiety, work-related stress, disordered thinking, personality disorders, and depression.
(415) 322-3706 View (415) 322-3706
Photo of Veronica Ghabour, Counselor in San Francisco, 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 Emily Wolf McMane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Emily Wolf McMane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123  (Online Only)
I use IFS, DBT, and narrative approaches among other techniques, but I believe that therapy is first and foremost a human relationship, and I will invest in getting to know you and your unique life circumstances before adjusting my approach to support you in your specific goals and needs.
I specialize in working with women, young adults, trauma survivors, and individuals grappling with identity issues, finding purpose in life, and experiencing major life changes. You are not broken, and I am not here to heal you, fix you, rescue you, or make you better. I am here to support you on your journey to discovering your authentic self and releasing old stories and patterns of behaviors that no longer serve you so that you may live a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life.
I use IFS, DBT, and narrative approaches among other techniques, but I believe that therapy is first and foremost a human relationship, and I will invest in getting to know you and your unique life circumstances before adjusting my approach to support you in your specific goals and needs.
I specialize in working with women, young adults, trauma survivors, and individuals grappling with identity issues, finding purpose in life, and experiencing major life changes. You are not broken, and I am not here to heal you, fix you, rescue you, or make you better. I am here to support you on your journey to discovering your authentic self and releasing old stories and patterns of behaviors that no longer serve you so that you may live a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life.
(707) 615-0653 View (707) 615-0653
Photo of Julie K Peters, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in San Francisco, CA
Julie K Peters
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
My training equips me with skills in drama therapy, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, motivational interviewing, DBT, etc.
Welcome, I bring a strong skill base working in LGBTQIA+, addiction and PTSD communitites. I love working with Couples and families, and I'm passionate about helping students navigate studying and self-care. I'm here to help you utilize your innate creativity, and I'm excited to aid you as you enact new patterns in your relationship with yourself and others. You will experience me as an affirming clinician who values and acknowledges your marginalized identity and the intersection of the many roles you embody. You can expect kindness from me and a treatment space that expands to allow your unique perspective to shine.
My training equips me with skills in drama therapy, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, motivational interviewing, DBT, etc.
Welcome, I bring a strong skill base working in LGBTQIA+, addiction and PTSD communitites. I love working with Couples and families, and I'm passionate about helping students navigate studying and self-care. I'm here to help you utilize your innate creativity, and I'm excited to aid you as you enact new patterns in your relationship with yourself and others. You will experience me as an affirming clinician who values and acknowledges your marginalized identity and the intersection of the many roles you embody. You can expect kindness from me and a treatment space that expands to allow your unique perspective to shine.
(510) 380-5706 View (510) 380-5706
Photo of Brian Wolfe, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Brian Wolfe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
I like to help my clients learn about intense emotions coming in waves like on an ocean and how to notice body sensations which then escalate into undesired behaviors. With a combination of CBT and DBT tools, I like to educate my clients about the purpose and necessity of all emotions and how to step away from feelings that could result in "problem behaviors" which only make things worse. Once we learn how to manage this phenomena, we can feel successful to move on to work on more difficult relationships in our adult lives that cause us trouble whether it be interpersonal familial, or work.
I like to help my clients learn about intense emotions coming in waves like on an ocean and how to notice body sensations which then escalate into undesired behaviors. With a combination of CBT and DBT tools, I like to educate my clients about the purpose and necessity of all emotions and how to step away from feelings that could result in "problem behaviors" which only make things worse. Once we learn how to manage this phenomena, we can feel successful to move on to work on more difficult relationships in our adult lives that cause us trouble whether it be interpersonal familial, or work.
(510) 826-3865 View (510) 826-3865
Photo of Elise Yoshida, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Elise Yoshida
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94108  (Online Only)
Life is so stressful, that anxiety can feel like a constant companion highlighting worry after worry. I can help you see life and yourself differently by teaching you skills that are supported by research. My specialty is helping people address their anxiety symptoms, cope with stress, and change their relationship to worry by using evidence-based practices (CBT, DBT, ACT, and mindfulness). I strive to create a supportive therapeutic relationship with my genuine, compassionate, and culturally responsive style. Together, we will work as a team to reach your goals so that you feel empowered to take on stressors.
Life is so stressful, that anxiety can feel like a constant companion highlighting worry after worry. I can help you see life and yourself differently by teaching you skills that are supported by research. My specialty is helping people address their anxiety symptoms, cope with stress, and change their relationship to worry by using evidence-based practices (CBT, DBT, ACT, and mindfulness). I strive to create a supportive therapeutic relationship with my genuine, compassionate, and culturally responsive style. Together, we will work as a team to reach your goals so that you feel empowered to take on stressors.
(562) 451-8470 View (562) 451-8470
Photo of Kimberly Kono, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Kimberly Kono
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
With training in CBT, DBT, ACT and psychodynamic therapy, I will help you identify your needs and how to meet them, and live an intentional and meaningful life based on what is important to you.
There are many important reasons why people come to therapy. For some, they may want to learn to manage their anxiety and depression, improve their relationships and set boundaries with others, and/or process painful experiences from their past. For others, they may want to address their perfectionism and unrealistic expectations, learn strategies to manage their ADHD, and/or cope with life or career transitions.
With training in CBT, DBT, ACT and psychodynamic therapy, I will help you identify your needs and how to meet them, and live an intentional and meaningful life based on what is important to you.
There are many important reasons why people come to therapy. For some, they may want to learn to manage their anxiety and depression, improve their relationships and set boundaries with others, and/or process painful experiences from their past. For others, they may want to address their perfectionism and unrealistic expectations, learn strategies to manage their ADHD, and/or cope with life or career transitions.
(415) 881-5439 View (415) 881-5439
Photo of Karen Briceno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Karen Briceno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
Hello, my name is Karen Briceno and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience. My therapeutic approach is Trauma Informed, Client-Centered, Holistic, and Strength-based. My training includes but is not limited to the following evidence base practices: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Seeking Safety. My approach will include creating an environment where you can be open about your ideas and experiences without judgment. I will be genuine in my interactions with you.
Hello, my name is Karen Briceno and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience. My therapeutic approach is Trauma Informed, Client-Centered, Holistic, and Strength-based. My training includes but is not limited to the following evidence base practices: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Seeking Safety. My approach will include creating an environment where you can be open about your ideas and experiences without judgment. I will be genuine in my interactions with you.
(415) 877-9659 View (415) 877-9659
Photo of Ian Fetterolf, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Ian Fetterolf
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94117  (Online Only)
I view psychotherapy through a humanistic and relational lens and practice evidence-based interventions from CBT, DBT, ACT, and assertiveness communication frameworks.
My ideal client is someone who is open-minded, receptive to challenge, and motivated towards enacting positive change in their life. Many of the individuals I support are referred through couples therapy and struggle with relationship challenges, physical and emotional intimacy, communication and self-expression, and establishing healthy boundaries. I collaborate closely with referring couples providers to ensure continuity of care and optimize outcomes in individual treatment. My relational style helps build trust and safety and has proven especially beneficial for clients who are hesitant or new to the therapeutic process.
I view psychotherapy through a humanistic and relational lens and practice evidence-based interventions from CBT, DBT, ACT, and assertiveness communication frameworks.
My ideal client is someone who is open-minded, receptive to challenge, and motivated towards enacting positive change in their life. Many of the individuals I support are referred through couples therapy and struggle with relationship challenges, physical and emotional intimacy, communication and self-expression, and establishing healthy boundaries. I collaborate closely with referring couples providers to ensure continuity of care and optimize outcomes in individual treatment. My relational style helps build trust and safety and has proven especially beneficial for clients who are hesitant or new to the therapeutic process.
(858) 463-6733 View (858) 463-6733
Photo of Rebecca Poplawski, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Rebecca Poplawski
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
Dr. Rebecca Poplawski is a licensed clinical psychologist with an interest in trauma, couples therapy, and mood disorders. She has worked in a variety of clinical settings throughout California and has experience working with a wide range of presenting concerns, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and borderline personality disorder. Dr. Poplawski works from several modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and emotion-focused therapy.
Dr. Rebecca Poplawski is a licensed clinical psychologist with an interest in trauma, couples therapy, and mood disorders. She has worked in a variety of clinical settings throughout California and has experience working with a wide range of presenting concerns, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and borderline personality disorder. Dr. Poplawski works from several modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and emotion-focused therapy.
(415) 903-7331 View (415) 903-7331
Photo of Amma H Tai, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Amma H Tai
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
As a clinician, I practice from an integrative, evidence-based collaborative care approach and draw from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), exposure therapy, mindfulness-based and solution focused therapy approaches.
Hello and welcome! I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing individual and group therapy in English, Cantonese and Mandarin. I specialize in anxiety disorders, stress and related conditions, and provide ADHD evaluation. Change may cause stress, but dealing with a change successfully would leave us stronger, more confident, and better prepared for a new chapter in our life. My approach is practical, focusing on fast symptom relief. I will help you understand your concerns and guide you to solutions you believe are best by learning new skills that will allow you to deal with challenges and maximize your full potential.
As a clinician, I practice from an integrative, evidence-based collaborative care approach and draw from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), exposure therapy, mindfulness-based and solution focused therapy approaches.
Hello and welcome! I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing individual and group therapy in English, Cantonese and Mandarin. I specialize in anxiety disorders, stress and related conditions, and provide ADHD evaluation. Change may cause stress, but dealing with a change successfully would leave us stronger, more confident, and better prepared for a new chapter in our life. My approach is practical, focusing on fast symptom relief. I will help you understand your concerns and guide you to solutions you believe are best by learning new skills that will allow you to deal with challenges and maximize your full potential.
(628) 333-6588 View (628) 333-6588
Photo of Elizabeth Huck, Associate Clinical Social Worker in San Francisco, 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 Megan Bourne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Megan Bourne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94112
With my foundation in psychodynamic theory and extensive training in Somatic Experiencing, NARM, DBT, and mindfulness, I'll tailor your treatment to your specific needs.
In my 20 years in practice, I have supported many people looking for a deeper relationship with themselves and others; people with a wide range of concerns and clinical presentations. I have a particular interest in developmental and attachment trauma. The tools I utilize are also highly effective in relieving chronic stress, and in helping almost anyone cope who feels stuck emotionally, physically, or spiritually. Whatever your unique needs, I'll work closely with you to identify what's holding you back - and ways we can help you move forward. I also support clients in the integration of psychedelic experiences.
With my foundation in psychodynamic theory and extensive training in Somatic Experiencing, NARM, DBT, and mindfulness, I'll tailor your treatment to your specific needs.
In my 20 years in practice, I have supported many people looking for a deeper relationship with themselves and others; people with a wide range of concerns and clinical presentations. I have a particular interest in developmental and attachment trauma. The tools I utilize are also highly effective in relieving chronic stress, and in helping almost anyone cope who feels stuck emotionally, physically, or spiritually. Whatever your unique needs, I'll work closely with you to identify what's holding you back - and ways we can help you move forward. I also support clients in the integration of psychedelic experiences.
(415) 969-2053 View (415) 969-2053
Photo of Nahid Fattahi, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Nahid Fattahi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
As a clinician I work mainly from behavioral and psychodynamic perspectives, relying on training in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to support clients in healing painful experiences, managing stress, other mental health struggles, and relationship issues. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a Marketing and Project Manager in Silicon Valley’s high-tech industry, having that experience has helped me to also have a successful track record in working with professionals facing job stress, addiction issues, and burnout — some of whom want to make big changes in their careers.
As a clinician I work mainly from behavioral and psychodynamic perspectives, relying on training in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to support clients in healing painful experiences, managing stress, other mental health struggles, and relationship issues. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a Marketing and Project Manager in Silicon Valley’s high-tech industry, having that experience has helped me to also have a successful track record in working with professionals facing job stress, addiction issues, and burnout — some of whom want to make big changes in their careers.
(408) 413-5238 View (408) 413-5238
Photo of Silvia Escobar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Silvia Escobar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
My name is Silvia Escobar and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California. I work with adolescents and adults specializing in depression, anxiety, life transitions, and stress using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I find that my style and approach is a good fit for teenagers and adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions, relationship issues, social pressures, grief and loss. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, and stress.
My name is Silvia Escobar and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California. I work with adolescents and adults specializing in depression, anxiety, life transitions, and stress using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I find that my style and approach is a good fit for teenagers and adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions, relationship issues, social pressures, grief and loss. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, and stress.
(415) 878-6144 View (415) 878-6144

See more therapy options for San Francisco

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.