DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy)
DBT is a highly specialized and evidence-supported treatment model. It was created for the treatment of borderline personality disorder and other complex problems that include emotional dysregulation as a core feature.
Who is DBT for?
DBT is recommended for individuals who struggle regulating their emotions and who have tried traditional therapy with little to no success. Often (but not always), these individuals have also struggled with self-harm and/or suicidal behavior.
DBT provides a powerful framework that allows clients to move forward toward building a life worth living. People who benefit from full DBT often spend a lot of time in psych wards, treatment centers, and other institutions where treatment is often adding to problems rather than helping them. Quality DBT treatment can be invaluable to individuals in these situations.
If you feel you could benefit from DBT, click the button to request an appointment with a qualified therapist.
Adult DBT Skills Class
Next module: Distress Tolerance – April 10th/11th, 2024
An 8-week DBT skills group that cycles through 3 skill modules: Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness. A 4th skill area (Mindfulness) is folded into each module. Held weekly, in-person or zoom, 2 hours.
Teen DBT Skills Class
Next module: March 28, 2024
An ongoing DBT skills class for teens. Designed to help teens work with their emotions, break out of harmful patterns, and connect them to their values. Held weekly, in-person, 1 1/2 hours.
Full DBT
Many therapists offer a “DBT-informed” approach, teaching useful skills to clients as needed. For many clients, a DBT-informed approach is great. However, a “Full DBT” program is different in that it includes more than just individual therapy. This table outlines the components (modes) of full or comprehensive DBT, along with their purpose:
| Mode | Purpose |
| Weekly individual therapy | Enhances client’s willingness to engage |
| Weekly skills group (2 hrs/wk) | Enhances client’s ability and skills |
| Phone coaching with therapist | Helps client generalize skills to real life |
| Regular consultation meeting for therapist | Enhances therapist’s ability to help client and offers therapist support from DBT consultation team. |
Four stages of treatment
DBT clients typically commit to one year of treatment and often renew that commitment for a second year. Of course, this is flexible and will be negotiated between the therapist and client. If you want to talk about beginning Full DBT treatment, request a (free) consultation appointment with a qualified therapist.