Photo of Morgan Sheldon, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90740, CA
Morgan Sheldon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I approach therapy from an intersectionally feminist restorative justice foundation and integrate tools from narrative and Gestalt therapy, EMDR and mindfulness, and DBT, CBT, and ACT.
My clients are often those who want to understand their ADHD or autism better, who have been dehumanized by treatment professionals in the past, who are frustrated by vague therapy answers, who fear they are "too much" or "too different". Overall, those who want to find the beauty in the darkness rather than denying the darkness, and who want to sit crooked and talk straight. I have particular passion for serving those with complex body relationships due to trauma, gender dysphoria, body image disturbance, disability, and systemic oppression.
I approach therapy from an intersectionally feminist restorative justice foundation and integrate tools from narrative and Gestalt therapy, EMDR and mindfulness, and DBT, CBT, and ACT.
My clients are often those who want to understand their ADHD or autism better, who have been dehumanized by treatment professionals in the past, who are frustrated by vague therapy answers, who fear they are "too much" or "too different". Overall, those who want to find the beauty in the darkness rather than denying the darkness, and who want to sit crooked and talk straight. I have particular passion for serving those with complex body relationships due to trauma, gender dysphoria, body image disturbance, disability, and systemic oppression.
(562) 662-4872 View (562) 662-4872
Photo of Wesley Grant Walters, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90740, CA
Wesley Grant Walters
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
My integrative, strength-based approach aims to foster self-awareness, promote insight, and enhance coping skills by incorporating modalities from the lenes of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness, narrative therapy, internal family systems, existential, and solution-focused brief therapy.
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we all need a little support to navigate through its ups and downs. As a therapist, my goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Whether you're facing difficulties in your relationships, struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, or simply seeking personal growth and self-discovery, I'm here to help. I believe in empowering individuals with a deeper sense of agency by helping them to tap into their inner-strengths and resources, enabling them to overcome challenges and build resilience.
My integrative, strength-based approach aims to foster self-awareness, promote insight, and enhance coping skills by incorporating modalities from the lenes of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness, narrative therapy, internal family systems, existential, and solution-focused brief therapy.
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we all need a little support to navigate through its ups and downs. As a therapist, my goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Whether you're facing difficulties in your relationships, struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, or simply seeking personal growth and self-discovery, I'm here to help. I believe in empowering individuals with a deeper sense of agency by helping them to tap into their inner-strengths and resources, enabling them to overcome challenges and build resilience.
(562) 568-5559 View (562) 568-5559
Photo of Audrey Malone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90740, CA
Audrey Malone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I am a Master Certified Accelerated Resolution Therapist and proficient in therapeutic approaches such as DBT, EMDR, IFS, EFT, CBT and mindful-based approaches.
Are you are a parent struggling with a child? Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed or lost? Maybe you are in a relationship that feels broken and you want to find healing, but don't know where to begin? Is your past keeping you burdened? It might feel like you have tried everything and have not made progress. Together, we will guide you back towards rediscovering a purposeful existence. My goal is to help you feel calm and a sense of relief by reducing your symptoms as quickly as possible. I will tailor your treatment so we can achieve your goals and meet your specific needs.
I am a Master Certified Accelerated Resolution Therapist and proficient in therapeutic approaches such as DBT, EMDR, IFS, EFT, CBT and mindful-based approaches.
Are you are a parent struggling with a child? Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed or lost? Maybe you are in a relationship that feels broken and you want to find healing, but don't know where to begin? Is your past keeping you burdened? It might feel like you have tried everything and have not made progress. Together, we will guide you back towards rediscovering a purposeful existence. My goal is to help you feel calm and a sense of relief by reducing your symptoms as quickly as possible. I will tailor your treatment so we can achieve your goals and meet your specific needs.
(562) 203-0623 View (562) 203-0623
Photo of Yvonne Rodriguez, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90740, CA
Yvonne Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I often combine CBT, ACT, DBT & mindfulness-based interventions to achieve insight and long-lasting results.
We all have our own unique stories. However, we all share the human experience of facing challenges, difficulties, even trauma, in our lives. It is normal to feel fear, worry, sadness, or grief. But when overwhelming emotions or maladaptive behaviors interfere with our functioning, relationships and general well-being, seeking professional help can be the most significant step toward transforming your life. If you are struggling, know that you are not alone nor must you do so on your own. There is no shame in prioritizing mental health. It takes strength and courage to make this investment and commitment to yourself.
I often combine CBT, ACT, DBT & mindfulness-based interventions to achieve insight and long-lasting results.
We all have our own unique stories. However, we all share the human experience of facing challenges, difficulties, even trauma, in our lives. It is normal to feel fear, worry, sadness, or grief. But when overwhelming emotions or maladaptive behaviors interfere with our functioning, relationships and general well-being, seeking professional help can be the most significant step toward transforming your life. If you are struggling, know that you are not alone nor must you do so on your own. There is no shame in prioritizing mental health. It takes strength and courage to make this investment and commitment to yourself.
(562) 262-8815 View (562) 262-8815
Photo of Sanar Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90740, CA
Sanar Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I have been in the mental health field for over 15 years. My many years of experience have allowed me to strengthen my clinical skills and develop my clinical expertise in helping you to achieve your unique goals. I continue to educate myself on the most up-to-date clinical research and I implement an evidence based clinical approach. Some of these models include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness practice and more. I have provided clinical care to countless individuals, families and couples. In treatment, I can help you increase your self-worth, work though depression, ease anxiety and more.
I have been in the mental health field for over 15 years. My many years of experience have allowed me to strengthen my clinical skills and develop my clinical expertise in helping you to achieve your unique goals. I continue to educate myself on the most up-to-date clinical research and I implement an evidence based clinical approach. Some of these models include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness practice and more. I have provided clinical care to countless individuals, families and couples. In treatment, I can help you increase your self-worth, work though depression, ease anxiety and more.
(562) 306-0269 View (562) 306-0269
Photo of Diana Cheng, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90740, CA
Diana Cheng
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740  (Online Only)
TELEHEALTH, ACCEPTS MEDICARE. Are you struggling or feeling overwhelmed with grief, depression, anxiety, managing your emotions, aging issues, transitions, or another challenge? Therapy is a journey to develop a deeper understanding of oneself. I can assist you in finding solutions and acceptance to the issues and stressors that cause you pain and suffering. I incorporate a strength-based, solution focused, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindful approach, which are effective in helping individuals gain insight and develop healthy coping skills to reduce symptoms.
TELEHEALTH, ACCEPTS MEDICARE. Are you struggling or feeling overwhelmed with grief, depression, anxiety, managing your emotions, aging issues, transitions, or another challenge? Therapy is a journey to develop a deeper understanding of oneself. I can assist you in finding solutions and acceptance to the issues and stressors that cause you pain and suffering. I incorporate a strength-based, solution focused, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindful approach, which are effective in helping individuals gain insight and develop healthy coping skills to reduce symptoms.
(562) 524-1189 View (562) 524-1189
Photo of Mary Gonzalez, Pre-Licensed Professional in 90740, CA
Mary Gonzalez
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740  (Online Only)
I offer a collaborative approach and draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities; CBT, DBT, solution-focused therapy and attachment theory.
I hope to create a safe therapeutic relationship, where you can be known, seen, and heard. I am here to empower you to tap into your abilities and strengths and help you to create a new path by challenging the barriers. I work with individuals and teens who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, grief and loss, life transitions, and relational/attachment wounds. My experience also includes working with the BIOPIC community, LGBTQIA+ community, first responders, veterans, and addicted family systems. I tailor therapy to my clients individual goals and needs and provide culturally competent mental health care.
I offer a collaborative approach and draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities; CBT, DBT, solution-focused therapy and attachment theory.
I hope to create a safe therapeutic relationship, where you can be known, seen, and heard. I am here to empower you to tap into your abilities and strengths and help you to create a new path by challenging the barriers. I work with individuals and teens who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, grief and loss, life transitions, and relational/attachment wounds. My experience also includes working with the BIOPIC community, LGBTQIA+ community, first responders, veterans, and addicted family systems. I tailor therapy to my clients individual goals and needs and provide culturally competent mental health care.
(424) 667-2434 View (424) 667-2434
Photo of Kristin Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90740, CA
Kristin Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I am experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Centered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
And through it all...there was space to heal. Thank you for being here. It's not always easy to show up for yourself. Therapy can offer a way to process emotions that may be painful or uncomfortable and learn how to cope with overwhelm in a safe + supportive environment. Whatever brought you to this page, I welcome you for taking this step. Whether you are experiencing anxious feelings, stress, overwhelm, sadness, anger, lack of motivation, fatigue, or just generally feeling as if something is off. I encourage you to commit to yourself to explore the parts of you that are in need of tending to.
I am experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Centered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
And through it all...there was space to heal. Thank you for being here. It's not always easy to show up for yourself. Therapy can offer a way to process emotions that may be painful or uncomfortable and learn how to cope with overwhelm in a safe + supportive environment. Whatever brought you to this page, I welcome you for taking this step. Whether you are experiencing anxious feelings, stress, overwhelm, sadness, anger, lack of motivation, fatigue, or just generally feeling as if something is off. I encourage you to commit to yourself to explore the parts of you that are in need of tending to.
(714) 475-1268 View (714) 475-1268
Photo of Francine Way, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90740, CA
Francine Way
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740  (Online Only)
I am formally trained in Acceptance Commitment, Mindfulness and Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy.
I believe therapy heals from the inside out, cultivates resilience and growth, builds a life of meaning and purpose, empowering one to fully engage with life as their authentic self. In a welcoming, sex-positive, affirming, judgement-free environment, together in partnership with you. I will mindfully customize my approach to meet your unique needs and comfort level, to bring about growth and change that goes beyond relieving distress. What I love about therapy is the journey, being able to help clients identify and enact value driven choices, accomplish goals that promote actualizing the meaningful life in which they envisioned.
I am formally trained in Acceptance Commitment, Mindfulness and Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy.
I believe therapy heals from the inside out, cultivates resilience and growth, builds a life of meaning and purpose, empowering one to fully engage with life as their authentic self. In a welcoming, sex-positive, affirming, judgement-free environment, together in partnership with you. I will mindfully customize my approach to meet your unique needs and comfort level, to bring about growth and change that goes beyond relieving distress. What I love about therapy is the journey, being able to help clients identify and enact value driven choices, accomplish goals that promote actualizing the meaningful life in which they envisioned.
(562) 454-1448 View (562) 454-1448
Photo of Christina Michelle Zandi, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90740, CA
Christina Michelle Zandi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Let's begin a new journey on a path that YOU choose. Whether you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, or searching for deeper insight and personal growth, I seek to help you become the best version of yourself. I focus on building your self-awareness and insight because I believe that we have to intimately know ourselves in order to implement change successfully. Growth is not easy, immediate or painless, but it is well worth it as you begin to move closer to your most authentic, fulfilling life.
Let's begin a new journey on a path that YOU choose. Whether you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, or searching for deeper insight and personal growth, I seek to help you become the best version of yourself. I focus on building your self-awareness and insight because I believe that we have to intimately know ourselves in order to implement change successfully. Growth is not easy, immediate or painless, but it is well worth it as you begin to move closer to your most authentic, fulfilling life.
(714) 707-2018 View (714) 707-2018
Photo of Debbie A. Freeman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90740, CA
Debbie A. Freeman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 26 years of experience. As a former Director of Clinical Services and current adjunct professor, I have trained hundreds of upcoming therapists in both the science as well as the art of providing quality, enriching therapy. I am dedicated to helping you to "process" any pain keeping you from having the healthiest relationships possible and a successful life. The hardest step is often just getting started so feel free to reach out and we can have a conversation. Individuals, Couples and Families always welcome. Accepting New Clients-Free Consultation
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 26 years of experience. As a former Director of Clinical Services and current adjunct professor, I have trained hundreds of upcoming therapists in both the science as well as the art of providing quality, enriching therapy. I am dedicated to helping you to "process" any pain keeping you from having the healthiest relationships possible and a successful life. The hardest step is often just getting started so feel free to reach out and we can have a conversation. Individuals, Couples and Families always welcome. Accepting New Clients-Free Consultation
(424) 543-8473 View (424) 543-8473
Photo of Sarah Greenspan, Pre-Licensed Professional in 90740, CA
Sarah Greenspan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, APCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I want to help you heal in a way that works for you. I’m an intuitive, hands-on therapist who will work with you to set your goals and to meet them by the end of therapy. We can work on finding Immediate Solutions or in exploring the Traumatic areas from your past. I understand the struggles people go through in relationships and how important it is to find somebody who will help you to learn new communication skills and how to achieve the clarity and peace of mind.
I want to help you heal in a way that works for you. I’m an intuitive, hands-on therapist who will work with you to set your goals and to meet them by the end of therapy. We can work on finding Immediate Solutions or in exploring the Traumatic areas from your past. I understand the struggles people go through in relationships and how important it is to find somebody who will help you to learn new communication skills and how to achieve the clarity and peace of mind.
(949) 326-9462 View (949) 326-9462
Photo of Danielle Roxborough, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90740, CA
Danielle Roxborough
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Relationships are an important part of our lives. Positive relationships increase the quality of life, whereas negative relationships have been shown to decrease life expectancy. However, many do not know how to foster healthy relationships and tend to repeat unhealthy patterns. Fortunately, therapeutic exploration can be done, emotional wounds can be healed, and skills can be gleaned through therapy in order to facilitate healthy, and thriving relationships. I am passionate in the art of couples therapy, as well as trained in various relationship issues such as familial dynamics, parenting, divorce, and blended family dynamics.
Relationships are an important part of our lives. Positive relationships increase the quality of life, whereas negative relationships have been shown to decrease life expectancy. However, many do not know how to foster healthy relationships and tend to repeat unhealthy patterns. Fortunately, therapeutic exploration can be done, emotional wounds can be healed, and skills can be gleaned through therapy in order to facilitate healthy, and thriving relationships. I am passionate in the art of couples therapy, as well as trained in various relationship issues such as familial dynamics, parenting, divorce, and blended family dynamics.
(562) 207-5630 View (562) 207-5630
Photo of Jennifer Leupp: Therapy For Overwhelmed People Pleasers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90740, CA
Jennifer Leupp: Therapy For Overwhelmed People Pleasers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740  (Online Only)
You’ve been putting everything into your job and relationships since you can remember and you are TIRED. Tired of saying yes when you already have too much on your plate, tired of the exhausting task of managing other people’s lives, and just plain tired of not having enough room for YOU in your life. It’s been so long since you prioritized your own needs that you aren’t even sure what having time for yourself would look like or how to get it. Part of you is terrified that people won't like you if you start saying no to their requests and part of you even feels guilty delegating some of these tasks.
You’ve been putting everything into your job and relationships since you can remember and you are TIRED. Tired of saying yes when you already have too much on your plate, tired of the exhausting task of managing other people’s lives, and just plain tired of not having enough room for YOU in your life. It’s been so long since you prioritized your own needs that you aren’t even sure what having time for yourself would look like or how to get it. Part of you is terrified that people won't like you if you start saying no to their requests and part of you even feels guilty delegating some of these tasks.
(562) 276-2479 View (562) 276-2479
Photo of Michele Ocen, Psychologist in 90740, CA
Michele Ocen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Do you have questions about your child's behavior and/ or development? Do you need strategies for better behavior? We can help! We help parents by providing developmental and diagnostic assessments for children, usually when there are questions about language, learning, play, social skills, and/ or development. We have specific expertise in the early detection and treatment of autism spectrum and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Assessment results are often used to help guide parents to appropriate treatments and available resources.
Do you have questions about your child's behavior and/ or development? Do you need strategies for better behavior? We can help! We help parents by providing developmental and diagnostic assessments for children, usually when there are questions about language, learning, play, social skills, and/ or development. We have specific expertise in the early detection and treatment of autism spectrum and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Assessment results are often used to help guide parents to appropriate treatments and available resources.
(562) 418-5151 View (562) 418-5151
Photo of Earl Klebe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90740, CA
Earl Klebe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I am a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist in Long Beach, California, who works with individuals struggling with compulsive sex or porn use and understand the impact of betrayal trauma on the partner and the relationship. I know how difficult it can be to break free from addictive behavior, and I am directive in my approach to therapy. I utilize a Task Centered approach based on the research of Dr. Patrick Carnes, the leading expert in the field of sexual addiction. Together we will start to repair the damage that has been done and work towards healing.
I am a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist in Long Beach, California, who works with individuals struggling with compulsive sex or porn use and understand the impact of betrayal trauma on the partner and the relationship. I know how difficult it can be to break free from addictive behavior, and I am directive in my approach to therapy. I utilize a Task Centered approach based on the research of Dr. Patrick Carnes, the leading expert in the field of sexual addiction. Together we will start to repair the damage that has been done and work towards healing.
(562) 539-2324 View (562) 539-2324
Photo of Joni L. Davis, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90740, CA
Joni L. Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I've been fascinated with how people change and don't change over the last 30 years. There is some stickiness in ourselves and others I think we'd all like to feel the power to transform. I've realized that fears about the sense of self not being good enough, lovable, or valuable knock us out of our connection to our internal core values, right in the moment where our core values would transform the situation. Contemplate when you let yourself down and don't follow through with what you know you want to do. Reflect on the times you've needed compassion and only received an evaluation. How would you change all this stickiness?
I've been fascinated with how people change and don't change over the last 30 years. There is some stickiness in ourselves and others I think we'd all like to feel the power to transform. I've realized that fears about the sense of self not being good enough, lovable, or valuable knock us out of our connection to our internal core values, right in the moment where our core values would transform the situation. Contemplate when you let yourself down and don't follow through with what you know you want to do. Reflect on the times you've needed compassion and only received an evaluation. How would you change all this stickiness?
(562) 543-3358 View (562) 543-3358
Photo of Tiffany Kapp, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90740, CA
Tiffany Kapp
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Do you want more in life? Are you feeling hopeless and at a loss of how to live your best life? If you have anxiety, depression, addiction or struggle with toxic relationships, life may seem unmanageable and you may find yourself wanting more. If you are experiencing some of these challenges, it may be negatively impacting your ability to be your best self. I can help you fully understand the underlying dynamics stemming from childhood that affect adult behavior and emotions. If you are tired of going in circles and you feel uncertain on how to move forward, therapy may help.
Do you want more in life? Are you feeling hopeless and at a loss of how to live your best life? If you have anxiety, depression, addiction or struggle with toxic relationships, life may seem unmanageable and you may find yourself wanting more. If you are experiencing some of these challenges, it may be negatively impacting your ability to be your best self. I can help you fully understand the underlying dynamics stemming from childhood that affect adult behavior and emotions. If you are tired of going in circles and you feel uncertain on how to move forward, therapy may help.
(310) 340-2596 View (310) 340-2596
Photo of Andrea Cairella, Counselor in 90740, CA
Andrea Cairella
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Do you desire inner harmony, life satisfaction & greater joy in your life? Are you ready to heal from your emotional pain & enhance the quality of your life and relationships? As a compassionate therapist, I can guide you along your healing journey. I am dedicated to helping my clients succeed, experience inner peace, self-acceptance, joy, hope and love. I am intuitive, empathetic, multicultural & multilingual with over 10 years of experience. My specialty areas include: anxiety, PTSD/trauma, attachment issues, depression, addiction, relationship issues (couples and families), grief & loss and self-esteem issue for adults, children & adolescents.
Do you desire inner harmony, life satisfaction & greater joy in your life? Are you ready to heal from your emotional pain & enhance the quality of your life and relationships? As a compassionate therapist, I can guide you along your healing journey. I am dedicated to helping my clients succeed, experience inner peace, self-acceptance, joy, hope and love. I am intuitive, empathetic, multicultural & multilingual with over 10 years of experience. My specialty areas include: anxiety, PTSD/trauma, attachment issues, depression, addiction, relationship issues (couples and families), grief & loss and self-esteem issue for adults, children & adolescents.
(562) 732-4936 View (562) 732-4936
Photo of Windows of Hope Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90740, CA
Windows of Hope Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Palm Desert individual, couples and family counseling offered in a warm and comfortable environment! We help individuals and couples work through difficult life processes in a nurturing and loving way. We assist your process offering effective communication practices and tools to work through even the most difficult situations. We specialize with mental health counseling in Palm Desert and Long Beach dealing with infidelity, blended family difficulties, life transition, anger management, substance abuse and dependence, and healthy communication practices. We look forward to hearing from you.
Palm Desert individual, couples and family counseling offered in a warm and comfortable environment! We help individuals and couples work through difficult life processes in a nurturing and loving way. We assist your process offering effective communication practices and tools to work through even the most difficult situations. We specialize with mental health counseling in Palm Desert and Long Beach dealing with infidelity, blended family difficulties, life transition, anger management, substance abuse and dependence, and healthy communication practices. We look forward to hearing from you.
(310) 928-2319 View (310) 928-2319
Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists

Who is DBT for?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is designed for people who experience extreme emotional suffering because they lack the skills of emotion regulation and distress tolerance. The basic affliction can underlie a wide range of conditions, from borderline and other personality disorders to PTSD and treatment-resistant anxiety and depression. The therapy is helpful to those whose emotional reactivity is so intense it is disruptive to everyday functioning and leads to frequent crises.

Why do people need DBT?

The ability to regulate emotions is a core psychological skill that enables people to function in life and pay attention to the world outside themselves; it is consistently associated with well-being. DBT is designed to help people learn how to manage and regulate their emotions. Originally developed to treat people with borderline personality disorder whose extreme emotional suffering led to self-harming behavior and suicide attempts, the therapy is now applied to other conditions involving emotion dysregulation, particularly when other treatments have failed.

What happens in DBT?

Individuals meet weekly with their therapist to discuss their experiences relating to moods, behavior, and skills. Using checklists they maintain, they review emotional experiences and positive practices they engage in. The diaries help individuals discern what led up to a specific problem encountered, this is followed by discussion of the consequences of their actions. In addition, individuals may meet in class-like small groups to learn skills such as mindfulness, emotion regulation and distress tolerance.

How long does DBT last?

Because it is intended to establish long-lasting behavioral change among those with persistent problems, DBT is designed to last six months to a year. DBT includes both weekly sessions of individual therapy and weekly skills-training sessions conducted in small groups. Studies of DBT have documented improvement within a year of treatment, particularly in controlling self-harmful behavior; nevertheless, individuals may require therapy for several years.