DBT therapists are extensively trained to deliver Dialectical Behavior Therapy for borderline personality disorder (BPD). This therapy is one type of psychotherapy for BPD with strong research support -- DBT has been shown to reduce a number of the symptoms of BPD, including self-harm and suicide attempts.
While more therapists are being trained to do DBT, right now DBT therapists can be hard to come by. However, there are a few resources that may help you with your search.
If you are in the United States, the best place to begin your search is with the Clinical Resource Directory maintained by Behavioral Tech (an organization founded by Marsha Linehan, Ph.D. to train mental health professionals in DBT). This directory allows you to search for clinicians by state.
You may also want to try the Association for Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies' Find-A-Therapist directory. This database allows you to search for practitioners by name, location, population served, and specialty (there is a "DBT" option under specialty). This directory includes international listings.
If these databases are not helpful, try calling departments of psychology or psychiatry at local universities, colleges, or medical centers. Because DBT is an evidence-based approach to treatment, academic training departments will often include practitioners who have been trained in DBT (or who know someone who is).
You may also want to talk to your primary care physician (PCP). Although many PCPs are not familiar with DBT, more are becoming educated about this approach and may be able to offer referrals to DBT therapists.
Finally, if you are still running into dead ends, look up the government agency that addresses mental health needs in your area. This may be the Department of Social Services, Department of Mental Health, or a similar agency. These agencies may know of DBT therapists in your area, and may be able to facilitate a referral depending on your needs.
Source:
Feigenbaum, J. "Dialectical Behaviour Therapy: An Increasing Evidence Base." Journal of Mental Health, 16:51-68, February 2007.
