Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Yes, all of GearingUP’s DBT therapists are either certified in DBT or are eligible for DBT certification in the near future. DBT certification requires clinicians to meet a very high standard of training and experience including dozens of hours of formal training, direct supervision with a DBT expert, a certain amount of direct hours practicing DBT therapy, and the clinician must be fully independently licensed. Certain GearingUP therapists have met all necessary criteria for DBT certification in terms of DBT training and supervision, but they may have to wait for official certification until they have completed all requirements such as finishing a required amount of hours of experience, full licensure, or other requirements.

As of 2024, GearingUP has chosen to not pursue “Linehan Board Certification” because GearingUP could no longer offer DBT on health insurance. Behavioral Tech, Dr. Marsha Linehan’s institute that oversees “Linehan Board Certification,” requires all Linehan Certified DBT therapists to strictly adhere to the “classic version” of DBT as originally developed by Dr. Linehan. Dr. Linehan’s original DBT protocol requires one or multiple individual therapy sessions per week, one or multiple 2+ hour long DBT skills group classes per week, multiple rounds of phone coaching with DBT therapists per week, and more.

As of this writing, insurance companies in the state of Texas will not cover such intensive forms of treatment in an outpatient setting (outside of a hospital). Further, GearingUP would not be able to offer multiple versions of DBT programming to make DBT treatment more flexible and accessible for clients with options like the DBT program presented entirely through individual sessions, shorter DBT skills group classes (around one hour long vs 2+ hours), more or less intensive versions of DBT based on client needs, etc. In an effort to keep DBT accessible, affordable, and realistic for most outpatient clients, GearingUp will not pursue “Linehan Board Certification” unless Behavioral Tech’s policy changes in the future.

The name of Dialectical Behavior Therapy refers to one of the core ideas of the system – Dialectical Thinking. Being “dialectical” means to accept two opposing viewpoints can be true at the same time. For instance, “I am doing the best that I can” can be true as well as “I can do better” is also true in the same moment. DBT’s core skills system is a combination of Acceptance and Change skills that allow clients to find effective ways to move forward in almost any situation.

DBT differentiates itself from other therapies by weaving together Acceptance and Change in a uniquely effective structure. Instead of “therapy as usual” that relies on insight from talking or strict behavioral changes, DBT helps clients validate and accept where they are right now while also incorporating new skills and strategies to build the life they want. The combination of individual therapy and skills classes helps clients learn, practice, and master practical tools for emotion regulation within themselves and better relationships with those around them. The balance of individualized support and a proven skills curriculum creates long lasting growth and happiness.

Each DBT client is different and the length of therapy depends largely on their needs. Classic DBT with the intensive schedule is estimated to last around 6-12 months with clients attending every session, every week. However, some clients choose to continue DBT therapy to review previous material, confirm their skills mastery, or for other reasons. Clients may also lengthen or shorten the duration of their DBT treatment depending on which form of DBT they choose or what is recommended for their particular needs.

Traditionally, DBT clients complete at least one individual therapy session and one DBT skills group per week. However, GearingUP has options for every schedule and budget that can make DBT more accessible and affordable.

Yes, all evidence-based DBT programs require separate individual therapy sessions and DBT skills classes. However, the format, duration, and style of these sessions may be tailored to fit each individual client. GearingUP may be able to make your DBT program work for your schedule and your budget depending on your needs.

Yes, DBT therapists often recommend multiple forms of homework between each session. Skills practice between sessions is essential to test drive the skills you are learning week-to-week, and short bursts of daily practice help us integrate new skills and build new habits. GearingUP’s DBT team often recommends other forms of homework like diary cards, mindfulness meditation, and more.

Since researchers have now shown DBT can be useful with a wide range of populations and mental health issues, almost all outpatient clients are eligible for DBT treatment depending on their particular needs or diagnosis.

GearingUP offers multiple forms of DBT that are partially or fully covered by most insurance policies, but individual plan benefits will determine the cost for each client. GearingUP also offers self-pay pricing, cash discounts, and sliding scale pricing for those who qualify.

Yes, GearingUP has created multiple versions of DBT that may be fully or partially covered by most insurance policies including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, Optum, Baylor Scott & White, and more. Our office would be happy to check your benefits for you to see if your plan covers DBT treatment at GearingUP.