At Pacific Clinics, we are committed to expanding access to evidence-based mental health care, especially for clients with complex, high-risk needs. Thanks to a statewide grant, we are proud to offer Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), a gold-standard, skills-based treatment that fills a critical gap in community mental health services across the Bay Area.
What Is DBT?
Our Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Skills Group is comprised of four modules that are designed to help participants manage depression, anxiety, symptoms associated with borderline personality disorder (BPD), bipolar disorder, substance use disorder, suicidal ideation, emotional distress and support with interpersonal effectiveness.
The four modules are:
- Mindfulness – Building awareness of thoughts, emotions and the present moment
- Distress Tolerance – Managing crises and emotional pain without making situations worse
- Emotion Regulation – Understanding emotions and reducing emotional vulnerability
- Interpersonal Effectiveness – Strengthening communication, assertiveness and relationship skills
Who DBT Serves
Pacific Clinics’ DBT program serves clients ages 14-26, with tailored approaches based on developmental needs:
- Skills-based DBT groups for older youth and young adults
- Multi-family, skills-based groups for teens and their families
- Individual DBT therapy, paired with group participation
- Phone coaching, providing real-time support during moments of crisis
Clients also benefit from DBT’s emphasis on consistency and collaboration, with therapists participating in consultation groups to ensure high-quality, aligned care.
A High-Intensity Program for High-Need Clients
As this modality is designed for clients experiencing significant emotional distress, and because of its complexity, DBT requires extensive clinician training. Pacific Clinics utilizes a Train-the-Trainer model, ensuring that DBT knowledge is embedded across teams and sustained long-term.
“I’m really proud of my clinicians for attending the trainings and integrating and practicing these skills,” said Program Manager Elena Park. “DBT is intensive, and not everyone can do it — but our team is committed.”
Success in DBT looks different for every client, depending on the severity of symptoms and individual goals. Outcomes may include:
- Reduction in self-harm or life-threatening behaviors
- Improved emotional regulation and mindfulness
- Decreased interpersonal conflict
- Stronger communication and assertiveness skills
- Increased stability, resilience and hope
At its core, DBT helps clients move toward a more fulfilling life.
