Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Resources:

The Linehan Institute - Official website of Dr. Marsha Linehan, creator of DBT.

Behavioral Tech - a leading organization for DBT training and certification

DBT Self-Help - skills, exercises, and tips on practicing DBT strategies

At Jackson County Therapy, we offer DBT-informed care tailored to each individual’s needs and goals. Our therapists integrate DBT skills into individual sessions, drawing from real-world examples and collaborative goal-setting to make learning feel natural and empowering.

We are trained in DBT techniques and committed to providing a structured, supportive space to help clients build long-term emotional wellness, one skill at a time.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a structured, evidence-based approach developed to support individuals who experience intense emotions, difficulty regulating behaviors, or frequent conflict in relationships. Originally created for individuals with borderline personality disorder, DBT is now widely used to support those managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use, and emotional dysregulation.

At its core, DBT blends acceptance and change. It helps individuals build awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors—while also learning new skills to create meaningful, long-term change.

Introduction to
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT at Jackson County Therapy

The Core Skills of DBT

DBT is built around four key skill areas:

1. Mindfulness – Learning to stay present and grounded in the moment.

2. Distress Tolerance – Building tools to cope with crisis and discomfort without making things worse.

3. Emotion Regulation – Understanding and managing emotional responses in healthier ways.

4. Interpersonal Effectiveness – Communicating clearly, setting boundaries, and maintaining relationships.

Therapy sessions involve identifying current challenges, practicing these skills in real time, and gradually building the capacity to handle life's difficulties more effectively.

If you’ve ever felt like your emotions take over, or if you’ve been told you’re “too sensitive” or “reactive,” DBT may offer the structure and tools you've been missing. DBT isn’t about changing who you are—it’s about helping you better understand yourself, build resilience, and create balance.

DBT can be especially helpful if you:

• Struggle with emotional outbursts or shutdowns

• Feel stuck in extreme thoughts or behaviors

• Have difficulty navigating relationships or trust

• Want support managing impulsive or self-sabotaging behaviors

How DBT Can Help You

Frequently asked questions about DBT

Q. How long does DBT therapy take?
A. DBT typically involves 6 months to a year of therapy, with a combination of individual sessions and group skills training.

Q. Is DBT effective for emotional regulation issues?
A. Yes, DBT is highly effective for individuals struggling with intense emotions, self-destructive behaviors, and relationship difficulties.

Q. Can DBT be used for depression or anxiety?
A. Yes, DBT is effective for treating not only borderline personality disorder but also depression, anxiety, and trauma-related symptoms.