Life can feel overwhelming—especially when emotions are intense, unpredictable or hard to manage. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) at Inspire Services in Southern Minnesota is a skills-based, evidence-based approach to help you regulate emotions, improve relationships and cope with distress in healthier ways.
Our DBT program combines skills training with support, so you can make lasting change and live a life worth living.
What is DBT Therapy?
DBT is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy that focuses on both acceptance and change. Originally developed to help individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD), it has since been proven effective for many mental health concerns including:
- Intense mood swings
- Chronic feelings of emptiness
- Self-harm or suicidal thoughts
- Anxiety and depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Substance use challenges
- Difficulty maintaining stable relationships
The goal is not only to identify mental health conditions but also to highlight strengths, coping skills and resources that can support your healing.
DBT teaches skills in four areas:
An accurate and thorough assessment can:
- Mindfulness – Being present and fully engaged in the current moment.
- Distress Tolerance – Managing crises without making them worse.
- Emotion Regulation – Understanding and reducing emotional vulnerability.
- Interpersonal Effectiveness – Communicating needs and setting boundaries while maintaining relationships.
Who Can Benefit from DBT?
DBT is helpful for people who:
- Experience emotions more intensely than others
- Struggle with impulsive or self-destructive behaviors
- Have difficulty recovering from emotional upsets
- Feel stuck in cycles of conflict or unstable relationships
- Want concrete tools to improve daily functioning and well-being
It’s effective for both adolescents and adults and can be individual, group or combined treatment.
Our Approach to DBT Therapy
At Inspire Services, our DBT therapy is delivered by trained, compassionate therapists who understand the challenges of living with intense emotions. Our program blends validation and support with skills training, so you can grow.
Our DBT program includes:
- Individual Therapy – Weekly one-on-one sessions to apply DBT skills to your challenges.
- Skills Training Groups – Structured classes to learn and practice DBT skills in a supportive group.
- Coaching and Support – Guidance between sessions to help you use skills in real life.
- Team Consultation – Our DBT therapists meet regularly to ensure you get the best care.This way you’re not just learning DBT skills but applying them in real life.
What to Expect in DBT Therapy
1. Commitment and Collaboration
DBT works best when you actively participate, practice skills between sessions and communicate openly with your therapist.
2. Goal Setting
Early sessions focus on setting treatment goals, such as reducing harmful behaviors, improving relationships or managing emotional triggers.
3. Skills Practice
Each session introduces tools and strategies in mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, or interpersonal effectiveness.
4. Real-Life Application
Between sessions, clients practice new skills in real situations, then return to therapy to reflect, problem-solve, and reinforce progress.
5. Long-Term Change
Over time, clients often notice more stability, fewer crises, and a greater sense of control over their lives.
Benefits of DBT Therapy
- Reduced Emotional Intensity – Learn to manage strong feelings without becoming overwhelmed.
- Better Relationship Skills – Communicate needs clearly, resolve conflicts and maintain healthy boundaries.
- Improved Coping Strategies – Respond to crises without resorting to harmful behaviors.
- Greater Self-Awareness – Recognize triggers and patterns that keep you stuck.
- Increased Resilience – Build a stronger foundation for long-term mental health and well-being.
Why Choose Inspire Services for DBT Therapy in Southern Minnesota?
Specialized Training
Our therapists are trained in DBT techniques and committed to delivering them with compassion and skill.
Integrated Care
DBT can be combined with other services such as individual therapy, family counseling, or substance use treatment.
Flexible Settings
Sessions are available in-person at our Montgomery, St. Peter and New Ulm clinics, with group and individual options.
Supportive Environment
We prioritize creating a safe space where clients can learn, practice, and grow without judgment.
Proven Results
DBT has decades of research supporting its effectiveness for complex emotional and behavioral challenges.
Taking the First Step
If intense emotions, relationship struggles or harmful behaviors are getting in the way of your life, DBT can provide the structure, skills and support you need to move forward.
At Inspire Services we’ll walk with you every step of the way – offering guidance, encouragement and the tools to help you live with more stability, confidence and hope.
