DBT for Therapists

DBT was initially developed by psychologist Dr. Marsha M. Linehan to address self-harming behaviors and emotion dysregulation commonly associated with borderline personality disorder (BPD), and designed to be provided in the outpatient therapy setting. Since its iteration, DBT has proven to be a beneficial treatment protocol for individuals dealing with a range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and substance abuse, in a variety of settings and dosages.

Is DBT-LBC Certification Required To Be A DBT Therapist?
While DBT-LBC Certification is the highest demonstration of adherence to the DBT Treatment Protocol, you do not have to have this certification in order to be a DBT Therapist. However, it is recommended that you are clear with potential clients about your level of adherence to the Comprehensive DBT model, which includes Diary Cards, Chain Analyses, Phone Coaching, and participation in a weekly Consultation Team. 

Adding DBT to Your Clinical Repertoire

Training
There are a variety of programs that offer training in DBT, including Behavioral Tech, the company developed by Marsha and her team. Look for trainings in DBT that are put on by clinicians holding the DBT-LBC certification.

DBT-Linehan Board of Certification
The DBT-Linehan Board of Certification is the only certification in DBT that was developed and approved by Marsha M. Linehan, Ph.D., ABPP.  This Certification indicates the highest level of dedication to the treatment protocol as it was designed by Dr. Linehan, and includes examinations and proof of implementation in the form of outcomes data and adherence coding on actual DBT sessions provided by the therapist.

Interested in becoming a DBT Clinician at Castlebrook Counseling? Check out our Careers page!