Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy that blends traditional cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices.

What Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy, commonly known as DBT, is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy that helps people better understand and manage their emotions while developing healthier ways to respond to life's challenges.

Originally developed to help individuals experiencing intense emotional distress, DBT is now widely used to support people facing anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and relationship difficulties.

Rather than trying to eliminate difficult emotions, DBT teaches you how to accept your experiences while building practical skills to create meaningful, lasting change.

Benefits of Dialectical Behavior Therapy

DBT can help you:

  • Better understand your emotions
  • Improve emotional regulation
  • Build resilience during stressful situations
  • Strengthen relationships
  • Communicate more effectively
  • Develop healthier coping strategies
  • Increase self-awareness
  • Feel more confident managing life's challenges

These skills can support lasting emotional growth and improved overall well-being.

CBT Therapist | The Lighted Path LLC

Insurances We Accept

  • BlueCross and BlueShield
  • GEHA
  • Medicaid
  • Medicare
  • Molina Healthcare
  • Optum
  • Oxford
  • Presbyterian
  • SUREST
  • UMR
  • UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
Coverage for services varies depending on your health insurance provider and specific plan.  We will provide the necessary “superbill” to submit for “in-network” claim filing. You can call your insurance company to determine your mental health coverage, deductibles, co-pays, etc.
The Lighted Path LLC Therapy | Therapist

How Can DBT Help?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy may benefit individuals experiencing:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Emotional overwhelm
  • Difficulty managing stress
  • Mood changes
  • Relationship conflict
  • Trauma-related concerns
  • Anger management challenges
  • Life transitions
  • Low self-esteem
  • Difficulty setting boundaries
  • Intense emotional reactions

Your therapist will tailor DBT strategies to your unique needs and personal goals.

Meet our DBT Therapists

Emily Martin, M.A. Candidate

Emily Martin, M.A. Candidate

Therapist | Master's Intern Counseling

Rachel Rascon, MS, LMHC

Rachel Rascon, MS, LMHC

Therapist | In-Person & Online

Natalie D. Vasquez, LMSW

Natalie D. Vasquez, LMSW

Therapist | Master's Intern Counseling

Britt Verstegen, LMSW, LSAA

Britt Verstegen, LMSW, LSAA

Therapist | Online Only

Frequently Asked Questions about DBT

What is the difference between DBT and CBT?

While both are evidence-based therapies, CBT focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns. DBT builds on CBT by adding skills for mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.

Is DBT only for people with severe mental health conditions?

No. DBT is used to help many people who want to improve emotional regulation, cope with stress, strengthen relationships, or develop healthier coping skills.

How long does DBT take?

The length of therapy depends on your goals and individual needs. Your therapist will work with you to create a treatment plan that supports your progress.

Will I learn skills I can use outside of therapy?

Yes. One of the strengths of DBT is that it teaches practical skills you can apply in everyday situations, from managing stress at work to improving communication with loved ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

Need immediate support? Click below for crisis hotlines you can call right now.

AGORA CRISIS LINE

505-277-3013


NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LINE

1-800-273-8255


NM CRISIS AND ACCESS LINE

855-662-7474

Lifeline

800-273-8255

(National Crisis Line)