Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) was developed by psychologist Marsha M. Linehan in the late 1980s as a means to more effectively treat chronically suicidal individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD). It is an evidence-based psychotherapy that is founded on the principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and blends concepts derived from Buddhist meditative practice such as awareness, mindfulness, and attentiveness to current situations and emotional experiences. DBT remains the gold standard form of treatment for individuals diagnosed with BPD, and according to Behavioral Tech, its efficacy has expanded and is now recognized as effective in treating other mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder, eating disorders (e.g., bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, etc.), transdiagnostic emotion dysregulation, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, and more. The therapeutic approach consists of three different therapy settings, including weekly individual psychotherapy sessions, weekly DBT skills training group therapy sessions, and as-needed phone coaching. The purpose of DBT is to provide clients with new skills to manage painful emotions and reduce conflicts in relationships.
Woodland Hills DBT Therapists
Woodland Hills is a city in California. It is an affluent suburb that borders the Santa Monica Mountains and is located in the San Fernando Valley of northern Los Angeles County. It is a family-friendly neighborhood that is known for its many parks, lavish green spaces, and an abundance of outdoor activities. Woodland Hills is also home to many highly qualified mental health professionals specializing in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). When beginning the search for a DBT therapist in Woodland Hills, the vast number of therapists can be overwhelming. To help narrow down your options consider the following suggestions:
- Get recommendations:
- Speak to your PCP (primary care provider) as he or she will likely be able to provide a list of reputable DBT specialists in the area.
- Check out some online sources: many mental health professionals have websites available for potential clients to review and/ or are included in an online compilation of reputable mental health professionals:
- Delve into your network of trusted family and friends to ask for references.
- Understand costs: each therapist will charge a fee for their services. The costs will vary, as different providers charge different rates. It is important to understand your out-of-pocket financial responsibility prior to selecting a DBT therapist, to ensure their services are not financially prohibitive.
- Plan an initial meeting with several therapists: each mental health clinician renders services that are directly informed by his or her personal and professional experiences, education, and personality. Although it may seem arduous, planning on and meeting with more than one DBT therapist can help you make an informed decision.
Another helpful resource when searching for a therapist specializing in DBT in Woodland Hills is the DBT Clinical Resource Directory. This directory is maintained by Behavioral Tech and allows you to search for clinicians and programs that have gone through DBT training with Behavioral Tech, LLC, or the Behavioral Research & Therapy Clinics (BRTC) at the University of Washington.
The information above is provided for the use of informational purposes only. The above content is not to be substituted for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment, as in no way is it intended as an attempt to practice medicine, give specific medical advice, including, without limitation, advice concerning the topic of mental health. As such, please do not use any material provided above to disregard professional advice or delay seeking treatment.
