Over 5.5 million Californias have a mental health condition.*
We’re here to help.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a structured, evidence-based approach that helps people navigate intense emotions, improve relationships, and develop healthier coping strategies. Originally created for borderline personality disorder (BPD), DBT is also highly effective for those struggling with trauma, depression, and other mental health challenges. By focusing on mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal skills, DBT provides the tools needed to handle life’s ups and downs in a more balanced way.
DBT is just one element of Charlie Health’s comprehensive treatment program offered virtually in San Diego. We provide personalized intensive therapy designed for people struggling with serious mental health conditions, combining expert care with peer connection to foster long-term healing.
Getting started with Charlie Health in San Diego is simple
Check your insurance
Call our Admissions Team 24/7 or fill out our quick form to learn more about our DBT options in San Diego and verify your insurance
Personalized match
Get connected with a clinical team that understands your needs
Personalized match
Get connected with a clinical team that understands your needs
Start virtual IOPHow does DBT work?
Key techniques of DBT
DBT blends individual therapy, group skills training, and real-world coaching to help clients manage difficult emotions and behaviors. Mindfulness encourages staying present and aware, distress tolerance builds resilience in tough moments, emotional regulation helps reduce overwhelming feelings, and interpersonal effectiveness strengthens communication and relationships. A DBT therapist works alongside clients, offering guidance and support as they practice these skills in their daily lives.
Primary goals of DBT
The goal of DBT isn’t just to manage emotions—it’s about creating a life that feels worth living. Clients learn how to handle distress without turning to harmful behaviors, navigate relationships with more confidence, and build resilience in the face of challenges. DBT also helps identify and adjust environmental variables that may be reinforcing negative patterns, making it easier to break free from cycles of distress and emotional overwhelm.
Key benefits of DBT
DBT is powerful because it gives people real, practical skills they can use every day. It helps reduce impulsive behaviors, improve emotional stability, and strengthen relationships. Many clients find that DBT makes it easier to manage distressing situations without feeling completely overwhelmed. Over time, these skills can lead to greater self-acceptance, confidence, and a sense of control over one’s mental health journey.
Our unique approach to DBT in San Diego at Charlie Health
Available in San Diego
In-network with insurance
Personalized treatment
Virtual access
Flexible scheduling
DBT made for you.
At Charlie Health, we understand that when you’re struggling, waiting for care isn’t an option. That’s why clients in San Diego dealing with borderline personality disorder, trauma, depression, and other mental health conditions can start virtual intensive therapy in as little as 24 hours. DBT is just one of the many evidence-based treatments included in our personalized care plans, ensuring you get the right support to start feeling better.
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FAQS about DBT in San Diego at Charlie Health
See All FAQsWhat is DBT?
DBT is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that helps people manage intense emotions, handle stress more effectively, and improve relationships. Through a combination of individual therapy, group skills training, and real-world application, DBT gives clients the tools they need to regain control over their mental health.
Who can benefit from DBT?
DBT is a great fit for anyone who struggles with overwhelming emotions, difficulty maintaining relationships, or engaging in impulsive or harmful behaviors. It’s particularly helpful for those with borderline personality disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression, but it can benefit anyone looking for a structured, skills-based approach to therapy. If you’ve ever felt stuck in cycles of distress or emotional highs and lows, DBT can help you find a more balanced way forward.
How long does DBT take?
If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health concerns, Charlie Health is here to help. Our virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) offers comprehensive treatment to help clients reframe negative thought patterns and build healthier coping strategies. Our expert clinicians incorporate evidence-based therapies, including dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), into individual counseling, family therapy, and group sessions. Through a specialized curriculum, mindfulness integration, and real-world application, our approach equips clients with practical skills for lasting change.
Is DBT available in San Diego
Charlie Health provides comprehensive anxiety treatment in San Diego through virtual Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), allowing clients to receive personalized care from the comfort of home.
How do I start therapy at Charlie Health?
If you or a loved one are struggling with DBT, Charlie Health is here to help. Charlie Health’s virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides mental health treatment for people dealing with serious mental health conditions, including both the emotional and physical symptoms of DBT. Our expert clinicians incorporate evidence-based therapies into individual counseling, family therapy, and group sessions. With support, managing your mental health and healing from DBT is possible.
*NAMI