What Is DBT?

DBT is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that focuses on helping individuals learn to regulate emotions, tolerate distress, and communicate more effectively. Originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT is now widely used for anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, impulsivity, and more.

The term dialectical refers to the balance between acceptance and change—two core concepts that guide every DBT session.

“DBT teaches you how to validate your experience while learning the skills to transform it.”

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Who Can Benefit from DBT?

DBT is helpful for individuals who experience:

• Intense emotional ups and downs
• Difficulty regulating emotions
• Impulsive or self-destructive behaviors
• Anxiety, panic, or chronic tension
• Depression or mood instability
• Trauma-related symptoms
• Relationship or communication challenges
• Overwhelming stress or frustration
• Borderline personality traits
• Chronic feelings of emptiness or shame

DBT is especially effective for those who feel “hijacked” by emotions and want a structured path toward balance and stability.

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Key Components of DBT

DBT focuses on four core skill areas that help you navigate emotional and interpersonal challenges:

1. Mindfulness

Learn to stay present, observe your emotions, and respond rather than react.

2. Emotional Regulation

Understand emotional triggers and develop tools to manage and reduce intensity.

3. Distress Tolerance

Build coping strategies to handle crises safely and effectively without making the situation worse.

4. Interpersonal Effectiveness

Improve communication, set boundaries, and maintain healthier relationships.

Together, these skills help you strengthen emotional resilience and make grounded, intentional choices.

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What to Expect in DBT Therapy

DBT sessions at PS It’s Counseling may include:

1. Skills Building: Learning and practicing each core DBT skill.
2. Emotional Exploration: Understanding how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact.
3. Real-World Application: Applying DBT tools between sessions to support long-term change.
4. Supportive Guidance: Working with a therapist who helps you balance acceptance and change.

Depending on your goals and needs, DBT may be offered individually or through a combination of individual and supplemental skills coaching.

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Benefits of DBT

• Better emotional regulation
• Healthier relationships and communication
• Reduced anxiety and reactivity
• Greater awareness and self-understanding
• Stronger distress tolerance
• Improved anger management
• More stable mood and thought patterns
• Increased confidence in handling stress
• Long-term coping tools that support emotional health

DBT empowers you to face life with clarity and stability—no matter how overwhelming circumstances may feel.

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Issues DBT Can Help With

DBT is especially effective for:

• Anxiety and panic symptoms
• Trauma and PTSD responses
• Depression and mood fluctuations
• Anger, irritability, and emotional outbursts
• Impulsivity or self-sabotaging patterns
• Codependency or relationship struggles
• Work, school, or family stress
• Chronic feelings of inadequacy or shame

DBT is a grounded, structured approach for anyone ready to cultivate emotional strength and steady inner balance.

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Related Services and Specialties

DBT pairs well with other therapeutic approaches, including:

These therapies create a well-rounded foundation for emotional wellness.

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Our DBT Therapists

Our DBT-trained therapists offer supportive, nonjudgmental guidance while helping clients build healthier emotional patterns. They are skilled at teaching DBT skills in a practical, relatable way—ensuring you feel supported in every step of your journey.

Meet Our Team →