Finding Dialectical Behavior Therapy for BPD Near You

Finding Dialectical Behavior Therapy for BPD Near You BPD Treatment Print How to Find Dialectical Behavior Therapy for BPD Near You By Kristalyn Salters-Pedneault, PhD Kristalyn Salters-Pedneault, PhD, is a clinical psychologist and associate professor of psychology at Eastern Connecticut State University. Learn about our editorial policy Kristalyn Salters-Pedneault, PhD Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on August 05, 2016 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on June 18, 2019 Steve Debenport / Getty Images More in BPD Treatment Diagnosis Living With BPD Related Conditions DBT therapists are extensively trained to deliver dialectical behavior therapy for borderline personality disorder (BPD), a unique type of cognitive-behavioral therapy  that has been scientifically shown to reduce distressing symptoms of BPD, including self-harm and suicide attempts. DBT focuses on teaching behavioral skills like regulating emotions, living in the moment, tolerating distress, and  managing relationships with other people. DBT is done in both individual and group therapy sessions, in addition to phone coaching sessions.   Finding a Dialectical Behavior Therapist Near You DBT therapists can be hard to come by. However, there are a few resources that may help you with your search. The best place to begin your search is with the Clinical Resource Directory maintained by Behavioral Techâ€"an organization founded by Marsha Linehan, Ph.D. to train mental health professionals in DBT. This directory allows you to search for clinicians and programs that have gone through DBT training with Behavioral Tech, LLC, or the Behavioral Research and Therapy Clinics at the University of Washington. The treatment programs can be searched for by state. You may also want to try the Association for Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies Find-A-Therapist directory. This database allows you to search for practitioners by name, location, population served, and specialty (there is a DBT option under specialty). This directory also includes international listings. If these databases are not helpful, try calling departments of psychology or psychiatry at local universities, colleges, or medical centers. Because DBT is an evidence-based approach to treatment, academic training departments will often include practitioners who have been trained in DBT. Another option is your local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. In addition, you may try looking up the government agency that addresses mental health needs in your area. This may be the Department of Social Services, Department of Mental Health, or a similar agency. These agencies may know of DBT therapists in your area and may be able to facilitate a referral depending on your needs. Be Sure to Talk to Your Doctor Its a good idea to talk with your primary care physician or psychiatrist about your desire to pursue DBT therapy. Your doctor can provide a referral and help confirm whether this is the best therapeutic approach for you.   Remember, remain an advocate for your mental health and be sure to choose a therapist that has proper DBT training and credentials.   Borderline Personality Disorder Discussion Guide Get our printable guide to help you ask the right questions at your next doctors appointment. Download PDF The 9 Best Online Therapy Programs