Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a cognitive behavioral approach that emphasizes the bio-psychosocial aspects of treatment. The basic premise of DBT is that some people are prone to experience emotions more intensely and react in more extreme manners to help regulate these emotions.

Primary Characteristics of DBT

Strengths-based: DBT therapists work with clients to identify their personal strengths and help build on them to increase self-confidence.

Cognitive-based: Thoughts, beliefs, and assumptions that make life more difficult are explored. Many people who come to DBT are stuck in “black and white” thinking—things are either all good or they are all bad. They may tell themselves “I can only be loved if I am perfect” or “If I get mad then I am bad.” DBT helps to reframe these false beliefs and assumptions so that we can feel better about ourselves and better manage our emotions and behavioral responses.

Skills-focus: DBT teaches clients hands-on tools that are practiced in everyday life, which means homework is often assigned by the therapist. Some of these skills include mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.

Who Can Benefit from DBT?

Adolescents and adults who experience:

Ongoing conflicts in relationships
Intense and rapid mood changes
Inability to relax
Trouble stuffing emotions, then “blowing up” at others
Impulsive or reactive decisions you often regret
Overeating
Spending too much
Feeling overwhelmed
Avoiding responsibilities, people, or events
“Numbing out” in response to fear, anger, etc.

Traditional DBT is a very structured program that usually involves intensive group and individual meetings. At Calli, we offer an alternative approach that is more flexible and adaptable for clients who do not need an intensive approach but would still benefit from learning DBT skills. Our DBT therapists offer skills training during individual sessions. This is an excellent complement for those who are either familiar with DBT because they have either completed a formal program in the past or are currently attending a group but do not have an individual therapist. Calli also sponsors a group for adolescents that is led by Kari Lyn Wampler, LMFT, called Core Skills.

Contact The Calli Institute to learn more about how we can help you.

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Wellness is a strengths based model that focuses on personal responsibility and self empowerment. It is the process of gaining awareness and satisfaction from activities that promote fitness, nutrition, positive relationships, stress management, life purpose, and commitment to self care. We believe that health and illness are not mutually exclusive and that one can maintain wellness even in the presence of disease.

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We recognize that each client is unique. We honor this by taking the time to get to know you as a whole person.

Our team’s goal is to help you feel safe and comfortable, while partnering with you to develop a plan to achieve your goals. We know that change is hard, but even a small change in any aspect of your life can have a significant impact. Our providers will partner with you and help to guide you through your mental health journey.

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"Calli institute is amazing, not only are you greeted when you arrive at the clinic, but you also feel comfortable waiting to be seen. The staff at the front desk are awesome!!!! Leigh is amazing also, she has helped me get through some tough times in my life, and still is continuing to help! They have compassion, empathy and don't judge you! I would recommend CALLI TO ANYONE WH…..."

"Great response to client needs. Recognizes non-standard gender and sexual orientations...."

"I have been seeing Cathy for over a year and her and her team have been great to work with and always friendly, understanding and there to help. It is hard to find someone that has after regular work hours and specializes in certain areas. Its great that my insurance and my employer covered my visits. There are so many negative reviews and my experience has been nothing but exc…..."

"I have been going to the Calli Institute for several years and have always been welcomed by wonderful staff and service. The beautiful thing about going to places like this is the versatility of therapists you are given based on what you are seeking help for. I find that the Calli Institute has a multitude of therapists that are able to exceed anyone's needs. They have great re…..."

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"Wonderful establishment! Really respectable team and warm space...."

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"Very welcoming staff. Very helpful. Been a client for a couple years...."

"This is a great facility for first-time guests as well as long-term clients. I have been to other counselors for both myself and my son for varying reasons and, by far, Calli surpasses them all.

If someone has had a bad experience with a psychiatrist or therapist, please know there are other places and providers to listen and help - don't give up on your mental health becaus…..."

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