Finding a DBT therapist is harder than it should be. DBT is one of the most evidence-based treatments available, but genuine DBT — the full model, not just a therapist who’s heard of it — requires specific training that not every clinician has. Here’s how to find someone who actually knows what they’re doing.
First: understand what real DBT looks like
Standard DBT has four components: individual therapy (weekly), skills training group (also weekly, typically 2 hours), phone coaching (access to your therapist between sessions for crisis support), and a consultation team (your therapist meeting with other DBT clinicians to maintain quality). Not every provider offers all four, and “DBT-informed” therapy can mean anything from intensive training to having read one book.
This matters because the research showing DBT’s effectiveness was done on the full model. Partial DBT can still be helpful, but it’s worth knowing what you’re getting.
How to find a DBT therapist
1. Start with the DBT-Linehan Board of Certification
The DBT-LBC is the nonprofit that certifies therapists and programs to Marsha Linehan’s own standards. Their directory is the most reliable place to find someone with verified training. Search by state or zip code.
2. Ask specific questions when calling a therapist
“Do you offer DBT” isn’t enough. Ask: Have you completed intensive DBT training? Do you run a skills group? Do you offer phone coaching? Are you part of a DBT consultation team? A clinician doing genuine DBT will answer these questions easily and specifically.
3. Use NAMI’s helpline to get pointed in the right direction
The NAMI helpline (1-800-950-6264) can help you identify local resources, including DBT programs. They’re not a referral service but they know the landscape and can help you navigate it.
4. Check with university training clinics
Many universities with psychology programs run training clinics that offer DBT at reduced cost, supervised by licensed clinicians. Search for “[your city] DBT training clinic” or “[your state university] psychology clinic.”
5. Consider online DBT programs
Telehealth has expanded access significantly. Several platforms now offer full-model DBT remotely. This is particularly useful if you’re in an area with limited DBT-trained providers.
If you can’t access a DBT therapist right now
The skills are learnable outside of formal therapy. The NoodleFodder DBT hub is a starting point. DBT Self Help has free resources including diary cards and skill guides. dialecticalbehaviortherapy.com has a free 40-lesson self-guided course.
Self-guided learning isn’t the same as working with a trained therapist, especially for severe emotional dysregulation, self-harm, or suicidal ideation. But it’s a real place to start while you’re working on access.
If you’re in crisis right now, visit our Crisis Support page.
These posts are educational, not a substitute for therapy. DBT was developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan.
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