How Dialectical Behavior Therapy Helps: Scottsdale, AZ DBT Group for Adults

Listen on the go: How Dialectical Behavior Therapy Helps – Scottsdale, AZ DBT Group for Adults

At Pathways Counseling Services, we offer evidence-based Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) groups and individual sessions in Scottsdale, AZ and throughout the Phoenix metro area. Whether you’re struggling with overwhelming emotions, anxiety, depression, or self-harm urges, our Scottsdale DBT specialists can help you learn skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.

Have you ever found yourself reacting impulsively, shutting down in conflict, or feeling completely overwhelmed by your emotions? You’re not alone—and you don’t need a formal mental health diagnosis to want better tools for emotional regulation, communication, or stress management. Our DBT skills group at Pathways Counseling Services is here to help!

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has been designed to help people cope with intense emotions. But today, it’s so much more than that. At Pathways Counseling Services in Scottsdale, AZ, we offer a DBT adult group for anyone looking to build healthy coping strategies, improve relationships, and develop emotional resilience.

Whether you’re navigating a difficult season, feeling burned out, or just want to feel more in control of your inner world—DBT may be exactly what you need.

Join our DBT Group – Limited Spots Available!

What Is DBT? (Scottsdale Dialectical Behavior Therapy Explained)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based mental health treatment that combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices. According to the Cleveland Clinic, DBT is “a type of talk therapy for people who experience emotions very intensely.” Developed by psychologist Dr. Marsha Linehan in the late 1980s, DBT was originally created to support individuals who experience chronic suicidal thoughts and emotion dysregulation—particularly those diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).

However, over time, research has shown that DBT skills can benefit a wide range of people beyond those with a formal diagnosis. Today, it is widely used for anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, relationship issues, addiction, and more.

What Does DBT Teach? (Phoenix Metro Focused)

• Handle tough moments without spiraling.
• Express yourself clearly and effectively.
• Cope with emotional distress without self-destructive behaviors.
• Build a life that feels more balanced and fulfilling.

Do I Need DBT Therapy in Scottsdale & Phoenix?

You do not need a formal diagnosis to start DBT in Scottsdale. We welcome people who are suffering from anxiety, depression, eating disorders or who simply want to learn more effective ways of coping. If you struggle with intense emotions or find yourself “burning out” quickly, our Phoenix DBT counseling groups may be a great fit.

While DBT was designed to support people experiencing intense and chronic distress, it’s now used by individuals from all walks of life—including those who don’t meet criteria for any specific diagnosis.

Many adults have joined our DBT groups because they:

• Struggle with emotional outbursts or “shutting down.”
• Feel overwhelmed in relationships.
• Want to reduce stress or anxiety.
• Have a hard time saying no or asking for what they need.
• Experience burnout, people-pleasing or perfectionism.
• Are navigating a big life transition and need better coping tools.

You do not need to be in crisis to benefit from DBT. All you need is the willingness to learn new skills, reflect honestly and practice small changes over time.

Foundations of DBT: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, Interpersonal Effectiveness

DBT is built around four core modules and each 7-week group focuses on one core module. Each module introduces skills that are simple in theory—but deeply powerful when practiced consistently. These are life skills that many of us were never taught but all of us need. Our next group (7/22/25-9/2/25) will focus on Distress Tolerance.

1. Mindfulness

This is the foundation of DBT. Mindfulness helps you notice your thoughts, feelings and body sensations without immediately reacting. You learn to pause before you speak or act—especially in moments that are emotionally charged.

2. Distress Tolerance

We know it; life is hard! Distress tolerance gives you tools to survive emotional pain without making things worse. These skills help you ride out emotional waves and ground yourself during high-stress situations.

3. Emotion Regulation

This module helps you understand and influence your emotional responses. You’ll learn how to reduce emotional vulnerability and take proactive steps to feel more balanced.

4. Interpersonal Effectiveness

This part of DBT helps you communicate assertively and maintain self-respect in relationships. You’ll learn how to ask for what you need without guilt—and how to say “no” without shutting people out.

What Happens In Our DBT Group?

At Pathways Counseling Services, our adult DBT group is a supportive environment led by Haley Anderson MSW LMSW licensed trauma-informed therapists. We keep our group size small so that participants can feel safe without pressure to share personal details unless they choose to.

• A check-in and space to ask questions.
• Reflect on your use of DBT skills in the past week.
• Teaching of a new DBT skill.
• Practice exercises or real-life examples.
• Optional between-session reflection or worksheets.

The goal is to help you learn and integrate DBT skills into your everyday life. Whether you’re already in therapy or not, this group supports your personal growth in a tangible way.

Join our DBT Group – Limited Spots Available!

DBT Works: Backed by Research

DBT is one of the most thoroughly researched therapies available today. It has been shown effective in reducing self-harm behaviors as well as symptoms associated with depression and anxiety disorders. Some key findings include:

• DBT significantly reduces suicidal behavior: Studies show reduced hospitalization rates among participants (Linehan et al., 2006).
• Improves emotional regulation: Research indicates improvements for adults with anxiety and mood disorders (Neacsiu et al., 2014).
• Mental health benefits: Mindfulness skills within DBT have been linked to reduced PTSD symptoms (Harned et al., 2012).

You don’t need a diagnosis—learning these skills can make daily life easier especially during stressful times or challenging relationships.

DBT in Real Life: Two Case Examples

Case 1: Olivia, 34 – “Too Sensitive” and Burned Out

Olivia came to the group feeling overwhelmed by work and family dynamics. She described herself as “too emotional” and often broke down in tears or felt panic when criticized. Through Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Olivia learned mindfulness and emotion regulation skills that helped her stay calm during tough conversations.

One of the key aspects of DBT is its focus on mindfulness, which encourages individuals to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment. For Olivia, this practice allowed her to recognize her emotional responses without being consumed by them. She began to understand that feeling overwhelmed was a signal for her to pause and assess her situation rather than react impulsively.

As a result of her DBT training, Olivia now sets clearer boundaries with her colleagues and family members. She has developed the confidence to articulate her needs without fear of criticism or rejection. The skills she acquired have not only improved her emotional resilience but also enhanced her overall quality of life.

Case 2: Marcus, 41 – Shutdown in Conflict

Marcus joined the group after recognizing a pattern in his relationships: shutting down when things got hard. His partner often accused him of being distant, which made him withdraw even more. Through DBT, Marcus learned to identify his emotional triggers and practice distress tolerance techniques.

One of the fundamental components of DBT is interpersonal effectiveness, which equips individuals with the tools to communicate their needs effectively while maintaining self-respect. For Marcus, this meant learning how to express his feelings during conflicts instead of retreating into silence. He practiced using “I” statements to convey his emotions without blaming his partner, which fostered healthier communication between them.

As a result of his commitment to DBT, Marcus has experienced significant improvements in his relationship dynamics. He no longer feels the need to shut down during conflicts; instead, he engages in open dialogue with his partner. This newfound ability has not only strengthened their bond but also increased Marcus’s self-trust and confidence in navigating difficult conversations.

Common DBT Misunderstandings

Myth: DBT is only for people with Borderline Personality Disorder.

Truth: While DBT was initially developed for individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), it has proven effective for a wide range of mental health issues including anxiety, trauma, stress management, and more—regardless of diagnosis.

Myth: DBT groups are intense or only for people in crisis.

Truth: Our DBT group is skills-based and designed to be low-pressure. It’s suitable for anyone looking to grow personally and emotionally, even if they are currently managing well.

Myth: DBT is a lot of “talk”, and not much “action”.

Truth: Many people mistakenly believe that DBT is merely talk therapy; however, it is very hands-on. Participants leave our sessions equipped with practical tools they can implement immediately in their daily lives.

Meet Our Scottsdale DBT Therapist

Haley Anderson, MSW, LMSW

Licensed Master Social Worker

Haley Anderson is a trauma-informed therapist with extensive experience supporting individuals facing anxiety, depression, PTSD, and emotional regulation challenges. She holds a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Connecticut and specializes in using Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help clients build coping skills, emotional balance, and healthier relationships.

Haley’s approach is compassionate and client-centered; she blends DBT with other evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Her diverse experience includes working with teens, adults, and families across various settings impacted by trauma and high-stress environments.

If you’re new to therapy or looking to deepen your skills, Haley brings a grounded presence to each group session—helping clients feel seen, empowered, and equipped with practical tools for real-life change.

How Our Pathways DBT Group Can Help

In our group setting at Pathways, you will build real-life coping skills that empower you to feel more in control of your emotions. You’ll learn how to communicate your needs effectively without fear or guilt while setting healthy boundaries that preserve your relationships.

The tools you acquire will help reduce stress levels, manage anxiety more effectively, and respond to emotional triggers with calmness and confidence—all within a supportive environment free from judgment.

Our adult Dialectical Behavior Therapy group meets weekly in Scottsdale with both in-person and hybrid options available. Each session provides you with new tools along with the support necessary for practicing them effectively.

If you’re ready to learn new strategies for creating meaningful change on your own terms—we’re here for you! You don’t have to navigate this journey alone; at Pathways, we walk beside you every step of the way.Learn More About Our DBT Group

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy that focuses on teaching skills for emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance, and mindfulness.

Who can benefit from DBT?

DBT can benefit anyone struggling with emotional regulation issues such as anxiety or depression—not just those diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder.

How long does DBT treatment typically last?

The duration of DBT treatment can vary depending on individual needs but typically lasts several months as clients learn and practice new skills over time.

Can I join a DBT group if I’m not in crisis?

Absolutely! Our groups are designed for individuals at various stages in their mental health journey—whether you’re experiencing a crisis or simply want to enhance your coping skills.

Call 480-613-8530 or sign up online to reserve your spot today!

📍 Location: Pathways Counseling Services, Scottsdale, AZ 
Inspire Office:8436 E Shea Blvd #103, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
📆 When: July 22 – September 2, 2025
Tuesdays, 6:00–7:30 PM
⏰Length: 7 weeks, 90 minutes each session
📝Module: Distress Tolerance
🧠 Format: Skills-based, psychoeducational, and supportive