how we treat
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Dialectical behavior therapy is a skills-based therapy that combines cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and practical application methods.
Dialectical behavior therapy at Pasadena Villa
At Pasadena Villa, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is delivered in four key stages. Each stage builds upon the last to support lasting change and emotional growth.
Behavioral control
Helping clients gain control over behaviors that interfere with treatment or daily life.
Emotional expression
Teaching clients to identify, experience, and express emotions in healthy ways.
Problem-solving
Empowering clients to tackle everyday challenges with a positive, solution-focused approach.
Social connection
Integrating skills from previous stages to improve interpersonal relationships and foster connections.
What is DBT?
DBT is a skills-focused approach rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It is designed to help individuals:
- Regulate emotions effectively
- Build healthier interpersonal relationships
- Improve distress tolerance
- Develop mindfulness of their thoughts, feelings, and surroundings
Created to treat borderline personality disorder (BPD), DBT has proven effective for a wide range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and substance use disorders.
Healing through DBT
DBT helps individuals regulate emotions, build successful relationships, increase distress tolerance, and become more mindful of their thoughts, feelings, and surroundings.
How does DBT work?
DBT is an evidence-based treatment that blends CBT with mindfulness, meditation, and self-awareness. DBT skills training teaches clients practical skills that can be applied in everyday situations, focusing on key areas such as mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance, and emotion regulation.
Pasadena Villa
Our Levels of Care
From residential treatment to partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, our continuum of care is designed to meet individuals at every stage of their recovery journey.
DBT for Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Regulating intense emotions – Many individuals with ASD experience intense emotional responses that can be overwhelming. DBT provides structured techniques to recognize these emotions, respond in a balanced manner, and cultivate healthy coping strategies.
- Strengthening social connections – Building and maintaining relationships can be difficult for individuals with ASD. DBT increases social awareness, deepens understanding of nonverbal cues, and promotes meaningful interactions.
- Managing stress & sensory overload – Sensory sensitivities, unexpected changes, and social demands can cause distress. DBT equips individuals with tools to recognize triggers, self-soothe, and stay grounded in challenging situations.
By integrating DBT into autism treatment, Pasadena Villa provides a supportive, home-like environment where individuals can build confidence, learn emotional regulation, and develop essential life skills for greater independence and well-being.
Take the first step toward recovery.
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