Dialectical Behavior Therapy was developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan as a comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for individuals experiencing intense, difficult-to-manage emotions. The word 'dialectical' refers to the core balance DBT teaches: accepting yourself exactly as you are right now, while simultaneously working toward meaningful change. DBT blends cognitive-behavioral strategies with mindfulness and acceptance practices, and it is structured around four core skill sets: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness. At NATX, DBT skills work is integrated into individual therapy and can be combined with neurofeedback for deeper results.

DBT was originally developed for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and chronic suicidality, but its applications have expanded significantly. DBT is now used to treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, substance use, self-harm behaviors, intense anger, and emotional dysregulation of all kinds. It is effective for adolescents and adults alike. You do not need a formal diagnosis to benefit from DBT — many people seek out DBT skills simply to improve their emotional resilience, relationship patterns, and ability to cope with life's stressors.

CBT focuses primarily on identifying and changing distorted thought patterns. DBT was built on a CBT foundation, but adds a critical element: radical acceptance and validation. DBT recognizes that for many people — especially those with intense emotional experiences — being told to simply change their thinking feels invalidating and doesn't work. DBT teaches that you can fully accept your current experience AND work toward change at the same time. It also adds explicit mindfulness practices and a far more detailed skills curriculum, particularly around distress tolerance and interpersonal functioning.

Standard comprehensive DBT is typically a 6-month to 1-year commitment, though individual needs vary. Full DBT programs traditionally include weekly individual therapy, a weekly skills group, and phone coaching between sessions. At NATX, Gil Garza incorporates DBT skills work into individual therapy sessions, and treatment length is tailored to your specific goals and progress. Some clients benefit greatly from a focused, shorter course of DBT skills work; others engage with DBT as a longer-term therapeutic framework.

Not at all. While DBT was initially developed for BPD, decades of research and clinical practice have confirmed its value across a wide spectrum of presentations. If you struggle with intense emotions, impulsivity, relationship difficulties, self-destructive behaviors, or feel like your emotional reactions are out of proportion to situations, DBT may be an excellent fit — regardless of diagnosis. Many people without any formal mental health diagnosis find DBT skills transformative for their everyday quality of life.

Yes. DBT is frequently used alongside existing therapeutic relationships and does not require you to discontinue current medication or therapy. In fact, DBT works best as part of a coordinated care plan. We always encourage collaboration with your full treatment team to ensure that all modalities are working together in support of your goals.

Individual therapy using DBT approaches is generally billed under standard outpatient mental health CPT codes, which are covered by most insurance plans that include mental health benefits. Coverage details depend on your specific plan. We encourage you to contact your insurer to ask about outpatient individual therapy coverage. NATX Neurofeedback can provide documentation to support your claim. Contact us to learn about self-pay options and current pricing.