Balancing Change and Acceptance
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a skills-based approach that helps people navigate intense emotions and difficult relationships by learning four core tools:
Mindfulness
Distress tolerance
Emotion regulation
Interpersonal effectiveness
Originally developed to support those with borderline personality disorder and chronic emotional dysregulation, DBT has become a go-to framework for anyone struggling with emotional outbursts, people-pleasing, avoidance, or black-and-white thinking.
While I do not offer full DBT treatment (which includes 24/7 crisis support and group sessions), I do integrate DBT-informed skills into individual therapy where appropriate. This allows clients to benefit from the framework’s strengths while staying focused on their unique goals.
Why DBT-Informed Therapy Can Help:
You may benefit from DBT skills if you:
Struggle with emotional control or outbursts
Often feel invalidated or misunderstood
Experience chaotic relationships
Shut down or avoid emotions altogether
Want to be more assertive, present, and grounded
DBT’s core dialectic—acceptance and change—beautifully mirrors the Christian walk. We are both called to “be still and know” and also to “press on.” I offer faith-based support throughout this process, helping you apply these skills in a way that aligns with your values, identity, and spiritual growth.
Important Note on DBT Fidelity:
While I incorporate DBT skills, I do not provide full DBT treatment, as it requires group work and 24/7 crisis support, which my practice model doesn’t offer. Instead, I use DBT-informed tools in a way that supports my clients while honoring both clinical ethics and personal boundaries.