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Depression Therapy

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT is a skills-based approach that combines acceptance and change strategies to help manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and reduce self-destructive patterns.

Evidence-Based (APA Division 12) 16–24 sessions typical Developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan

Quick Facts

Typical Duration 16–24 sessions
Best For Emotional dysregulation, self-harm, depression
Session Format Individual (50 min)

Last reviewed by Jen Meehan, LCSW, CCATP — May 2026

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) was originally developed for borderline personality disorder but has since been shown effective for a wide range of conditions involving emotional dysregulation. DBT teaches practical, concrete skills across four domains: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.

The "dialectical" in DBT refers to the balance between acceptance and change — validating that your current responses make sense given your history, while also supporting you in building a more effective life.

How It Works

The Dialectical Behavior Therapy process

  1. 1

    Mindfulness

    Building present-moment awareness as the foundation for all other skills.

  2. 2

    Distress Tolerance

    Learning to survive crises without making things worse — tolerating pain skillfully.

  3. 3

    Emotional Regulation

    Understanding emotions, reducing vulnerability to intense reactions, and changing unwanted emotional experiences.

  4. 4

    Interpersonal Effectiveness

    Navigating relationships with clarity — asking for what you need, saying no, and maintaining self-respect.

Who It's For

Conditions treated with Dialectical Behavior Therapy

DepressionAnxietyEmotion DysregulationBorderline Personality DisorderSelf-HarmTrauma
  • People who experience intense, overwhelming emotions
  • Those with relationship patterns that feel out of control
  • Individuals struggling with self-destructive coping behaviors
  • Anyone who wants practical, skill-based tools for emotional regulation
Evidence Base

What the research says

DBT significantly reduces self-harm, suicidal ideation, and psychiatric hospitalizations in high-risk populations

Linehan et al. (1991, 2006), Archives of General Psychiatry
Our Specialists

Clinicians trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Jen Meehan, LCSW, CCATP Waitlist
Jen Meehan
LCSW, CCATP

Jen's expertise covers a range of concerns, including obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, family conflict, and grief. She is committed to a client-centered approach, working alongside each client to identify their unique needs and build a personalized path to healing.

  • Anxiety
  • OCD
  • Couples
  • Trauma
Book a Consultation
Emily Bryant, LCSW, CCTP Waitlist
Emily Bryant
LCSW, CCTP

Emily brings steadiness and genuine care to her work with clients, building a therapeutic relationship grounded in trust, honesty, and practical support. She works with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, and the lasting effects of trauma or difficult life transitions.

  • Anxiety
  • Trauma
  • Depression
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Common Questions

Frequently asked questions

Ready to try Dialectical Behavior Therapy?

Book a free 15-minute consultation with one of our licensed therapists.

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