Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Westlake Village, CA

Photo of Jonathan Vera Monteverdi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Jonathan Vera Monteverdi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91361
I have been trained in various modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Committement Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Addictions, Complex Trauma, Deceptive Sexuality Trauma and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
From helping adolescents cope with big life situations and transitions, to facilitating individual/group mental health services for adults; helping people experience lasting change and true recovery with self and others are the core values in my psychotherapy practice.
I have been trained in various modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Committement Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Addictions, Complex Trauma, Deceptive Sexuality Trauma and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
From helping adolescents cope with big life situations and transitions, to facilitating individual/group mental health services for adults; helping people experience lasting change and true recovery with self and others are the core values in my psychotherapy practice.
(805) 608-2872 View (805) 608-2872
Photo of Samantha Molinar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Samantha Molinar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
I use DBT and CBT informed therapy, while incorporating Strength Based, Psychodynamic, and Family Systems to help individualize treatment to best meet the needs of my client.
Hi! I want to first acknowledge that you have made the effort to seek out help by coming to this website, which means you already have awareness and acceptance that you may need additional support in your life right now. I commend you for taking that first step, it takes enormous strength. If you are someone who is finding your self stuck in unhealthy and maladaptive cycles, leading to strained or unhealthy relationships, unmet goals, lack of fulfillment, poor self esteem, or unhealthy behaviors, I am confident that I can help support you to overcome those barriers and help guide you towards achieving your goals.
I use DBT and CBT informed therapy, while incorporating Strength Based, Psychodynamic, and Family Systems to help individualize treatment to best meet the needs of my client.
Hi! I want to first acknowledge that you have made the effort to seek out help by coming to this website, which means you already have awareness and acceptance that you may need additional support in your life right now. I commend you for taking that first step, it takes enormous strength. If you are someone who is finding your self stuck in unhealthy and maladaptive cycles, leading to strained or unhealthy relationships, unmet goals, lack of fulfillment, poor self esteem, or unhealthy behaviors, I am confident that I can help support you to overcome those barriers and help guide you towards achieving your goals.
(747) 271-5714 View (747) 271-5714
Photo of Kimberly Yudt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Kimberly Yudt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
Hi, I'm Kimberly & I'm glad you're here. My practice focuses on the healthy development and mental wellness of children, teens, young adults, and their families. I take a collaborative approach to creating a safe environment for individuals to explore their innermost thoughts, emotions, and life challenges. I integrate traditional psychotherapies including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and acceptance & commitment therapy (ACT) while weaving in relatable and modern techniques.
Hi, I'm Kimberly & I'm glad you're here. My practice focuses on the healthy development and mental wellness of children, teens, young adults, and their families. I take a collaborative approach to creating a safe environment for individuals to explore their innermost thoughts, emotions, and life challenges. I integrate traditional psychotherapies including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and acceptance & commitment therapy (ACT) while weaving in relatable and modern techniques.
(805) 590-2799 View (805) 590-2799
Photo of Jessica Mahn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Jessica Mahn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based care to children, adolescents, and adults facing mental health challenges and substance use disorders. With a background in DBT, attachment based family therapy, and dual diagnosis treatment, I offer comprehensive assessments, individualized therapy, and support services tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based care to children, adolescents, and adults facing mental health challenges and substance use disorders. With a background in DBT, attachment based family therapy, and dual diagnosis treatment, I offer comprehensive assessments, individualized therapy, and support services tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
(323) 417-6101 View (323) 417-6101
Photo of Lindsey Cooper, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Lindsey Cooper
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91361
Therapy is unique to you! Let me support you by bringing my toolbox that includes skills from DBT, CBT, and mind-body based therapies, and let's figure out what your needs are and how I can support you.
If you're dealing with relationship stuff, navigating neurodivergence, or facing anxiety, depression, or LGBTQ+ stressors, you're not alone. I'm here to help, and my ideal clients are just like you – teens, adults, couples, families, individuals – the whole crew. We'll chat about your goals, no judgment, just a friendly conversation. What are you after? Less anxiety, more calm, and solid coping skills for those big feelings and stressors? Totally get it. Let's find solutions together and make you feel better. It's a journey we'll take side by side, creating a space for peace, balance, and resilience. Looking forward to connecting!
Therapy is unique to you! Let me support you by bringing my toolbox that includes skills from DBT, CBT, and mind-body based therapies, and let's figure out what your needs are and how I can support you.
If you're dealing with relationship stuff, navigating neurodivergence, or facing anxiety, depression, or LGBTQ+ stressors, you're not alone. I'm here to help, and my ideal clients are just like you – teens, adults, couples, families, individuals – the whole crew. We'll chat about your goals, no judgment, just a friendly conversation. What are you after? Less anxiety, more calm, and solid coping skills for those big feelings and stressors? Totally get it. Let's find solutions together and make you feel better. It's a journey we'll take side by side, creating a space for peace, balance, and resilience. Looking forward to connecting!
(657) 226-3079 View (657) 226-3079
Photo of Southern California DBT Clinic, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Southern California DBT Clinic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91361  (Online Only)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a well-researched and established therapy that helps many move forward and create a life worth living.
I have about 20 years of experience as a clinician. I am described as warm and accepting and can also push when needed. I practice a dialectical approach of acceptance and change. Dialectical Behavior Therapy is my primary clinical orientation and therapy that I have seen help many, including those feeling stuck in other treatments.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a well-researched and established therapy that helps many move forward and create a life worth living.
I have about 20 years of experience as a clinician. I am described as warm and accepting and can also push when needed. I practice a dialectical approach of acceptance and change. Dialectical Behavior Therapy is my primary clinical orientation and therapy that I have seen help many, including those feeling stuck in other treatments.
(805) 399-5139 View (805) 399-5139
Photo of Sousan B Amiri, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Sousan B Amiri
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91362
Additionally, I am Certified in EMDR therapy and heavily trained in CBT and DBT evidence-based Modalities to help with trauma as well as symptoms of PTSD.
Are you seeking a seasoned, compassionate guide on your journey to healing and self-discovery? Look no further. I'm Sousan Amiri, LMFT, a dedicated psychotherapist with more than 15 years of experience in serving adults, adolescents, and couples. My passion lies in helping individuals and relationships flourish, particularly in the face of trauma and anxiety.
Additionally, I am Certified in EMDR therapy and heavily trained in CBT and DBT evidence-based Modalities to help with trauma as well as symptoms of PTSD.
Are you seeking a seasoned, compassionate guide on your journey to healing and self-discovery? Look no further. I'm Sousan Amiri, LMFT, a dedicated psychotherapist with more than 15 years of experience in serving adults, adolescents, and couples. My passion lies in helping individuals and relationships flourish, particularly in the face of trauma and anxiety.
(805) 468-4566 View (805) 468-4566
Photo of Megan Stevens Talmo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Megan Stevens Talmo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
My treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, play therapy, solution focused therapy and EMDR.
In my practice, I strive to give you the best opportunity at self-reflection and growth. I specialize in working with children, adolescents and young adults who are struggling with mood disorders and cognitive disabilities. I work with my clients to understand their stressors that come from living day to day life, fearing the unknown and not knowing the tools to curb emotional distress. I additionally specialize in working with trauma victims through EMDR therapy. With my experience in residential and lower levels of care, as well as group therapy settings, I strive to meet you where you are at therapeutically.
My treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, play therapy, solution focused therapy and EMDR.
In my practice, I strive to give you the best opportunity at self-reflection and growth. I specialize in working with children, adolescents and young adults who are struggling with mood disorders and cognitive disabilities. I work with my clients to understand their stressors that come from living day to day life, fearing the unknown and not knowing the tools to curb emotional distress. I additionally specialize in working with trauma victims through EMDR therapy. With my experience in residential and lower levels of care, as well as group therapy settings, I strive to meet you where you are at therapeutically.
(661) 338-5793 View (661) 338-5793
Photo of Lisa Ann Noack, Counselor in Westlake Village, CA
Lisa Ann Noack
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
I use evidenced-based approaches such as CBT, Psychodynamic, DBT, Experiential, and Comprehensive Resource Model for trauma processing.
It's not easy asking for help and support when navigating life's challenges. Finding a trained therapist you feel comfortable with is extremely important. My goal is to balance supportive connection with skilled intervention, helping clients create healthy and meaningful lives. I believe in a holistic, integrative approach to therapy that includes all dimensions of health. I perceive every person who enters therapy as valuable and courageous, deserving treatment tailored to their specific needs in a supportive, safe, caring environment. I will always respect your unique personality, cultural background and family context.
I use evidenced-based approaches such as CBT, Psychodynamic, DBT, Experiential, and Comprehensive Resource Model for trauma processing.
It's not easy asking for help and support when navigating life's challenges. Finding a trained therapist you feel comfortable with is extremely important. My goal is to balance supportive connection with skilled intervention, helping clients create healthy and meaningful lives. I believe in a holistic, integrative approach to therapy that includes all dimensions of health. I perceive every person who enters therapy as valuable and courageous, deserving treatment tailored to their specific needs in a supportive, safe, caring environment. I will always respect your unique personality, cultural background and family context.
(805) 600-2878 View (805) 600-2878
Photo of Madison Edwards, Psychological Associate in Westlake Village, CA
Madison Edwards
Psychological Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
Life can be unpredictable and feel out of our control. The day-to-day stress, exhaustion, and relationship difficulties can be overwhelming and hold us back without us even realizing it. Our therapeutic collaboration will help you learn how to react, cope, and move forward, no matter what the circumstance! Every person is different and deserves to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, their potential, and their personal desires. My eclectic approach combines psychodynamic, CBT, and DBT skill techniques with an individualized approach for each client.
Life can be unpredictable and feel out of our control. The day-to-day stress, exhaustion, and relationship difficulties can be overwhelming and hold us back without us even realizing it. Our therapeutic collaboration will help you learn how to react, cope, and move forward, no matter what the circumstance! Every person is different and deserves to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, their potential, and their personal desires. My eclectic approach combines psychodynamic, CBT, and DBT skill techniques with an individualized approach for each client.
(805) 232-7361 View (805) 232-7361
Photo of Jennifer Kashou, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Jennifer Kashou
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91362  (Online Only)
With training in Brainspotting and extensive practice in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, I provide a chance to help you untangle and release difficult thoughts and feelings.
As a therapist, I empathize with the barriers and challenges that can impede your ability to function effectively in your life. I specialize in treating individuals with anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as I specialize in working with teens and pre-teens. My goal with therapy is to provide a safe and warm space where we can explore and create change together. Whether you seek individual growth or wish to improve relationships, I assist individuals of diverse ages dealing with a spectrum of issues, all striving to create transformation in their lives.
With training in Brainspotting and extensive practice in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, I provide a chance to help you untangle and release difficult thoughts and feelings.
As a therapist, I empathize with the barriers and challenges that can impede your ability to function effectively in your life. I specialize in treating individuals with anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as I specialize in working with teens and pre-teens. My goal with therapy is to provide a safe and warm space where we can explore and create change together. Whether you seek individual growth or wish to improve relationships, I assist individuals of diverse ages dealing with a spectrum of issues, all striving to create transformation in their lives.
(818) 722-8045 View (818) 722-8045
Photo of Eric Bellman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Eric Bellman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91361  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We utilize a team approach for: -Dialectical Behavioral Therapy -other personal and cognitive therapies.
Eric Bellman LCSW the Right Therapy -I am dedicated to the right approach in treating BPD and PTSD pain management and addictions. -Therapy is also useful for other complex situations people face from mental illness to life transitions and creative blocks Therapy has many uses from the most serious challenges of emotional disorders to the creative techniques for overcoming mental blocks by helping to channel emotionally regulated energy into a creative life. The right teamwork and approach helps everyone; -individuals of all ages -married couples - families and people undergoing personal life transitions in our fast changing world
We utilize a team approach for: -Dialectical Behavioral Therapy -other personal and cognitive therapies.
Eric Bellman LCSW the Right Therapy -I am dedicated to the right approach in treating BPD and PTSD pain management and addictions. -Therapy is also useful for other complex situations people face from mental illness to life transitions and creative blocks Therapy has many uses from the most serious challenges of emotional disorders to the creative techniques for overcoming mental blocks by helping to channel emotionally regulated energy into a creative life. The right teamwork and approach helps everyone; -individuals of all ages -married couples - families and people undergoing personal life transitions in our fast changing world
(805) 351-4357 View (805) 351-4357
Photo of Sandra Andrade, Psychologist in Westlake Village, CA
Sandra Andrade
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
Linehan's Behavioral Tech adding to my proficiency with Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
My clientele are children, adolescents, and adult struggling with adjusting to life stressors, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and personality disorder traits. Currently my practice is primarily working with females but I work with both females and males. I have worked in the field of psychology for over 10 years. I also provide Quotient ADHD testing.
Linehan's Behavioral Tech adding to my proficiency with Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
My clientele are children, adolescents, and adult struggling with adjusting to life stressors, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and personality disorder traits. Currently my practice is primarily working with females but I work with both females and males. I have worked in the field of psychology for over 10 years. I also provide Quotient ADHD testing.
(805) 491-4856 View (805) 491-4856
Photo of Dr. Sue Sakuei, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Dr. Sue Sakuei
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
I have extensive training in DBT Skills Training, Mindful Awareness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which I am certified CBT therapist from Beck Institute.
My focus is on deepening my patients' understanding of their own behaviors, improving their communication and coping skills, increasing confidence and self-image, and moving toward a healthier and more satisfying level of functioning. I am fluent in both English and Farsi.
I have extensive training in DBT Skills Training, Mindful Awareness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which I am certified CBT therapist from Beck Institute.
My focus is on deepening my patients' understanding of their own behaviors, improving their communication and coping skills, increasing confidence and self-image, and moving toward a healthier and more satisfying level of functioning. I am fluent in both English and Farsi.
(805) 409-3912 View (805) 409-3912
Photo of Leesa Varela, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Leesa Varela
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
Compassionate, open-minded, strength-based care is Leesa’s goal for every client, in the environment that best meets your needs - In-office, Remote, or a combination of both. Leesa will support you to navigate difficult life stressors and address trauma wounds that can cause symptoms of anxiety, depression, acute or post-traumatic stress, addiction, relational conflict, employment/academic impairment, etc. She uses EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral (DBT) and Family Systems interventions to create an individualized treatment plan that's ideal for you!
Compassionate, open-minded, strength-based care is Leesa’s goal for every client, in the environment that best meets your needs - In-office, Remote, or a combination of both. Leesa will support you to navigate difficult life stressors and address trauma wounds that can cause symptoms of anxiety, depression, acute or post-traumatic stress, addiction, relational conflict, employment/academic impairment, etc. She uses EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral (DBT) and Family Systems interventions to create an individualized treatment plan that's ideal for you!
(805) 491-9256 View (805) 491-9256
Photo of Elizabeth Finnerty, Psychologist in Westlake Village, CA
Elizabeth Finnerty
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91361
To achieve positive outcomes, I use evidence-based techniques such as CBT and DBT, along with trauma-informed, attachment-based, and mindfulness approaches.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in Ventura County, California. I work with adolescents and adult clients statewide via telehealth, as well as in-person in Westlake Village, and specialize in trauma/PTSD/complex trauma, suicidality, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, and interpersonal conflict. I am committed to tailoring treatment to the unique needs of each client. Life presents all of us with challenges that we are not meant to navigate alone. It is infinitely more meaningful when we can explore our inner worlds in the safe presence of another.
To achieve positive outcomes, I use evidence-based techniques such as CBT and DBT, along with trauma-informed, attachment-based, and mindfulness approaches.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in Ventura County, California. I work with adolescents and adult clients statewide via telehealth, as well as in-person in Westlake Village, and specialize in trauma/PTSD/complex trauma, suicidality, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, and interpersonal conflict. I am committed to tailoring treatment to the unique needs of each client. Life presents all of us with challenges that we are not meant to navigate alone. It is infinitely more meaningful when we can explore our inner worlds in the safe presence of another.
(805) 243-2209 View (805) 243-2209
Photo of Peter Mora, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Peter Mora
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91361
Thank you for taking time to read about my practice. My name is Peter, and I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 9 years of experience working with adolescents and young adults. I work with a warmer approach, incorporating evidence based practice in my sessions, such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I especially enjoy working with adolescents and young adults struggling with depression, anxiety, motivation, and transitions. My background and experience include work in outpatient treatment, in-home outreach, and community practice settings.
Thank you for taking time to read about my practice. My name is Peter, and I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 9 years of experience working with adolescents and young adults. I work with a warmer approach, incorporating evidence based practice in my sessions, such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I especially enjoy working with adolescents and young adults struggling with depression, anxiety, motivation, and transitions. My background and experience include work in outpatient treatment, in-home outreach, and community practice settings.
(805) 590-8009 View (805) 590-8009
Photo of Chelsie Silveira, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Chelsie Silveira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
My clients typically come to me because they are struggling with anxiety or depression and they want to work on their ability to interact with others or improve relationships, complete tasks, sleep better or feel better about themselves. I use a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy interventions, Exposure Response Prevention, Dialectical Behavior Therapy interventions, Brainspotting and when indicated Behavioral Interventions. I work from a strengths-based perspective to find the best parts of you and/or your family and I work to build your strengths so you can grow and thrive on your own again.
My clients typically come to me because they are struggling with anxiety or depression and they want to work on their ability to interact with others or improve relationships, complete tasks, sleep better or feel better about themselves. I use a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy interventions, Exposure Response Prevention, Dialectical Behavior Therapy interventions, Brainspotting and when indicated Behavioral Interventions. I work from a strengths-based perspective to find the best parts of you and/or your family and I work to build your strengths so you can grow and thrive on your own again.
(805) 926-6995 View (805) 926-6995
Photo of Liana Huang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Liana Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
I am trained in EMDR, psychoanalysis, trauma-informed CBT, DBT, and solution-focused therapy to help clients develop a better understanding of any underlying issues and cope with overwhelming feelings.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
I am trained in EMDR, psychoanalysis, trauma-informed CBT, DBT, and solution-focused therapy to help clients develop a better understanding of any underlying issues and cope with overwhelming feelings.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
(323) 673-3771 View (323) 673-3771
Photo of Melanie Maddox, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Westlake Village, CA
Melanie Maddox
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
(323) 375-2483 View (323) 375-2483

See more therapy options for Westlake Village

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.