Phone Coaching before Self-Harm

using phone coaching

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has changed the way many therapists assist and address suicidal and self-harming behaviors and intense emotions. One of the key elements that sets DBT apart is its emphasis on phone coaching, as well as the 24-hour rule. In this two part blog post, we’ll explore the significance of phone coaching and … Read more

Tips for Back to School 

kids in school around table

The school bell rings, backpacks are packed, and classrooms are buzzing with excitement. For some children, returning to school after a long break can be an exciting experience, and for others, it can be quite daunting. Whether it’s due to anxiety, academic pressures, uncertainty, or simply the struggle to get back into the routine, parents … Read more

Boundaries Vs Limits

caution cones cars motorcycle small and large caution cones

When most people think about ways of maintaining healthy relationships, individuals often consider working on boundaries within relationships. Boundaries is a term that refers to the limits and rules that are set within relationships. For example, my boundaries might include establishing that other people need to knock on the door before entering my room, that … Read more

FAST Track to Self-Respect

woman happy flowers self love

The clinicians at CCDBT have written numerous blogs about shame, likely because we all have a wealth of experience working with people who see themselves as “less than” or “not enough.” One way to combat shame is to build self-respect, and DBT has a skill specifically designed to help people do exactly that. The FAST … Read more

Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth

Support lgbtqia+ youth pride flag

While pride month just ended, I wanted to highlight the importance of being an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, especially LGBTQ+ youth.  The primary source I’ll be referencing is The Trevor Project. If you are unaware of this resource, I encourage you to check them out! They are a nonprofit organization that’s number one mission … Read more

DBT Family Therapy: Effective Transactions

healthy parenting relationship

If you are experiencing a high-conflict relationship, whether as a parent or partner with a loved one, you are not alone. Many families struggle with managing disagreement and tension, which can make it challenging to experience the positive moments in a relationship and find deeper connection. Although relationships are complex, there is a burgeoning science … Read more

DBT Assumptions: Your Therapist’s Thoughts About You

DBT Therapy client and therapist talking

Each type of therapy has its way of viewing the people it’s designed to treat. DBT therapists who practice adherently are trained to make certain assumptions about all of their clients. One of the most important things to remember about assumptions is that they are not facts. Assumptions, by their definition, are beliefs someone accepts … Read more

Options for Solving Any Problem

Lightbulb in hands Options for Solving Any Problem DBT Skills

Dr. Marsha Linehan, the creator of DBT, explains there many infinite painful and distressing events which occur in our lives, and yet there are a limited number of responses available to us.  She categorized these responses into four groups.  I present these options to clients (and myself) when there are difficulties moving forward on a … Read more

Understanding Sexual Fluidity

gay bisexual sexual fluidity

Sexual fluidity refers to ways that sexual orientation evolves over the lifespan. Some individuals have a considerable degree of sexual fluidity, while other individuals experience their sexual orientation as primarily stable throughout their lifespan. Understanding sexual fluidity is important to decrease stigma toward individuals that may experience shifts in their sexual orientation labels or the … Read more