What is a DBT Therapist?

DBT Therapist

What is a DBT Therapist?

At Southlake Counseling, we believe in meeting each client where they are and offering specialized approaches that empower real change. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is one of our most transformative tools, designed to help individuals navigate intense emotions, build meaningful relationships, and create lasting stability in their lives. A DBT therapist is more than just a counselor; they are a guide, mentor, and collaborator who provides both structure and compassion on the path to personal growth.

Our DBT therapists are highly trained in evidence-based techniques that emphasize balance—helping clients accept themselves as they are while working toward meaningful change. Whether you’re dealing with overwhelming emotions, impulsive behaviors, or challenges in communication, our DBT therapists tailor their approach to support your specific needs. At Southlake Counseling, we’re proud to offer this life-changing therapy to help individuals of all ages lead more fulfilling lives.

Frequently Asked Questions about DBT Therapists

What does a DBT therapist do?
A DBT therapist specializes in helping clients manage intense emotions and improve relationships through practical, evidence-based strategies. They provide structured sessions that include skills training, problem-solving, and validation, all aimed at helping clients find balance in their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. DBT therapists also offer an added layer of support through phone coaching, ensuring that clients can practice skills in real-life situations when they need it most.

How is DBT different from CBT?
While Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns, DBT takes this a step further by addressing both acceptance and change. DBT incorporates mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness to help clients not only think differently but also respond to life’s challenges in healthier ways. It’s especially effective for those who experience intense emotions, chronic self-criticism, or difficulty maintaining relationships.

What is the 24-hour rule for DBT?
The 24-hour rule is a boundary designed to maintain the effectiveness of therapy and ensure safety. If a client engages in self-harming behavior, they are asked to refrain from contacting their therapist for 24 hours. This rule encourages clients to utilize their skills and coping strategies, fostering independence and accountability while still receiving the support they need during regular sessions.

What are the 4 skills of DBT therapy?
The foundation of DBT lies in its four core skill areas:

Mindfulness – Learning to stay present in the moment and observe thoughts without judgment.
Distress Tolerance – Building the ability to manage crises and tolerate painful emotions without resorting to harmful behaviors.
Emotional Regulation – Understanding and managing intense feelings to reduce emotional vulnerability and reactivity.
Interpersonal Effectiveness – Developing healthier communication skills to build and maintain strong, respectful relationships.

At Southlake Counseling, our DBT therapists empower clients with these skills, guiding them to build a more resilient, balanced, and fulfilling life.

Did you know we are the ONLY Board-Certified Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Led Center in the Charlotte-Metro Area?

Learn more here.

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DBT is a structured, evidence-backed form of therapy that teaches and encourages the practice of coping mechanisms to help clients whose emotions make it difficult to cope with daily situations.

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