DBT-Informed Therapy
Finding balance between acceptance and change
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) was originally developed to help individuals navigate intense emotions and build more stable, meaningful lives. In my DBT-informed therapy, I draw from the principles and practical skills of DBT to support clients in managing overwhelming feelings, building self-understanding, and strengthening relationships.
While DBT-informed therapy does not follow the full formal protocol of comprehensive DBT, it honors its core principle: finding the balance between acceptance and change. We cannot truly change without first radically accepting where we are right now. One of DBT’s distinguishing features is its concrete set of skills—in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness—that help translate our conversations in session into action.
With a DBT-informed approach, we’ll work together to identify which DBT components may be most helpful in your life right now. We’ll explore the behaviors you’d like to change, the skills that could support you, and the ways you can continue building a rich and meaningful life.
If you’re curious about how DBT‑informed therapy might support you, I would be happy to talk more and explore whether this approach feels like a good fit.
What’s the difference between comprehensive DBT and DBT‑informed therapy?
Comprehensive DBT is a structured, multi‑component treatment that includes individual therapy, a skills group, phone coaching, and therapist consultation. It’s designed for clients who need intensive, ongoing support for managing severe emotion dysregulation or self‑destructive behaviors.
DBT‑informed therapy uses the same principles and skills as DBT but applies them more flexibly within individual therapy. It’s well‑suited for clients who want to strengthen coping skills, improve relationships, and find emotional balance, without participating in the full DBT program.
Both approaches share a common goal: helping clients find balance between acceptance and change while building a life that feels meaningful.
How do I know if DBT‑informed therapy is right for me?
Deciding on the right therapeutic approach is something we’ll explore together during the initial consultation and assessment process. We’ll discuss your goals, symptoms, and what kind of support feels most helpful to you.
If I believe your needs would be better met through comprehensive DBT or another treatment modality, I’ll provide referrals to trusted local practices that offer those services. My goal is always to make sure you receive care that best fits your needs and supports your growth.