What we treat
Dialectical behavior therapy
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based approach that teaches practical skills for handling intense emotions, stressful moments and relationships. Our therapists use DBT skills in individual and group sessions to support women through overwhelming feelings during pregnancy, postpartum, midlife and other seasons of change. Ask a question to learn how it could fit your care.
What is DBT?
DBT is a skills-based form of talk therapy that grew out of cognitive behavioral therapy. Its core idea, the 'dialectic', is holding two truths at once: accepting yourself as you are while also working toward change. DBT focuses on four skill areas, mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness, that you practice in sessions and in everyday life.
How does Femme Health use DBT?
Care starts with a personal intake so your therapist understands what feels most overwhelming right now. DBT skills are then built into a plan that fits your season of life.
In clinician-led virtual groups, you learn and practice DBT skills with other women who understand. Groups are a natural fit for DBT, since skills are often taught and rehearsed together.
With your primary therapist, you'll apply those skills to your own situations, from big emotional waves to hard conversations at home. Your care advocate helps with scheduling, costs and next steps.
Where DBT helps
What DBT can support
Mood disorders
DBT helps you notice emotional shifts early and use steadying skills so intense moods feel less overwhelming.
Learn moreDepression
Emotion regulation and self-compassion skills can ease harsh self-judgment and help you rebuild steadier days.
Learn moreTrauma and PTSD
Distress tolerance and grounding skills can help you feel safer in your body when painful memories or reactions surface.
Learn moreCommon questions about dialectical behavior therapy
What are the four DBT skill areas?+
DBT skills are usually grouped into four areas:
- Mindfulness: staying present and aware without judgment
- Distress tolerance: getting through a crisis moment without making it worse
- Emotion regulation: understanding and easing intense feelings
- Interpersonal effectiveness: asking for what you need and setting boundaries
How is DBT different from CBT?+
CBT focuses mostly on changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. DBT builds on CBT but adds a strong emphasis on acceptance, mindfulness and skills for intense emotions and relationships.
What can DBT help with?+
DBT is often used for intense or fast-changing emotions, mood disorders, depression, trauma-related symptoms, self-harm urges and relationship stress. It can also help women navigate emotional changes during pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause and menopause.
Does DBT work virtually?+
Yes. DBT's structured, skills-based format adapts well to virtual groups and sessions, and practicing from home can make it easier to use the skills in real life.
How long does DBT take?+
It varies. Learning all four skill areas often takes several months, but many people start using helpful skills within the first few weeks. Your therapist will check in about progress and what you need.
If you're in crisis, call or text 988 or call 911 right away.
Ready to take the first step?
Get startedThis page is general information, not medical advice. In crisis? Call or text 988, or call 911.