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7 Best DBT Therapists in South Florida for BPD and Emotional Dysregulation (2026)

  • Aug 11
  • 10 min read

Updated: Aug 13

Therapist listening to woman in cozy office; text reads 7 Best DBT Therapists in South Florida, BPD & Emotional Regulation

Living with overwhelming emotions can feel exhausting. One moment everything seems manageable, and the next, it can feel impossible to cope with intense sadness, anger, anxiety, or relationship challenges. For many people, these experiences are linked to emotional dysregulation, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), trauma, or other mental health conditions that affect daily life.

The good news is that effective treatment is available. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is one of the most researched and effective therapies for helping people manage intense emotions, improve relationships, reduce impulsive behaviors, and develop healthier coping skills. While many therapists may use some DBT techniques, working with a clinician who has dedicated DBT training can make a meaningful difference.

South Florida is home to several experienced mental health professionals who provide DBT therapy for individuals facing emotional regulation challenges, BPD, trauma, anxiety, depression, and related conditions. To help you narrow your search, we've highlighted seven therapists with strong credentials, specialized experience, and a commitment to evidence-based care.

Whether you're exploring therapy for yourself or someone you care about, this guide can help you find a provider who matches your needs and supports your journey toward lasting emotional wellbeing.


Did you know? 

DBT was originally developed by psychologist Dr. Marsha Linehan specifically to treat chronically suicidal individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder — a population once considered largely untreatable. Decades of research funded and summarized by the National Institute of Mental Health have since established DBT as one of the most effective, evidence-based treatments available for BPD and emotional dysregulation, with continued research into how and why it works so well.

If You're Short on Time

Choosing a DBT therapist isn't simply about finding someone nearby. The therapist's training, experience, and treatment approach all play an important role in your progress.

Here's what to know before you book:

  • DBT is considered one of the most effective treatments for Borderline Personality Disorder and emotional dysregulation.

  • Some therapists provide DBT-informed therapy, while others offer comprehensive DBT programs that include individual therapy, skills training, and coaching.

  • The therapists below were selected based on their professional credentials, DBT experience, clinical reputation, and services available to South Florida residents.


Compare the Best DBT Therapists in South Florida

Therapist

Credentials

Best For

Virtual Appointments

Katrina Verdon, PsyD

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

DBT, trauma, emotional regulation

Yes

Blair Mor, PsyD

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Emotional regulation, personality disorders

Yes

Sara A. Hosn, PsyD, ABPP, DBT-LBC

Board Certified Clinical Psychologist

Comprehensive DBT, BPD

Check provider

Nicole A. Friedman, PsyD, DBT-LBC

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

BPD, DBT groups, trauma

Check provider

Alyssa Segal, PsyD

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Comprehensive DBT

Check provider

Raul J. Rodriguez, MD

Psychiatrist

DBT and medication management

Check provider

Holly Bedotto, PsyD

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Comprehensive DBT program

Check provider


How We Chose These DBT Therapists

Finding the right therapist is a personal decision, and there isn't one provider who's the perfect fit for everyone. For this guide, we focused on professionals with strong clinical credentials, experience treating emotional dysregulation and Borderline Personality Disorder, and specialized training or extensive experience in Dialectical Behavior Therapy.

We also considered each therapist's treatment approach, professional reputation, and the range of services they provide to individuals across South Florida. While every person's needs are different, the clinicians featured below have established experience helping clients build healthier coping skills, strengthen relationships, and manage difficult emotions through evidence-based care.

Meet the Best DBT Therapists in South Florida


1. Katrina Verdon, PsyD — MorMindful


Katrina Verdon, PsyD

If you're looking for a therapist with specialized DBT training, Dr. Katrina Verdon stands out as one of the strongest options in South Florida. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist at MorMindful, she has advanced training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and works with individuals experiencing emotional dysregulation, trauma, anxiety, addiction, and relationship difficulties.

Her approach combines evidence-based therapies with compassionate, personalized care. She works closely with each client to understand the challenges they're facing while teaching practical skills that improve emotional regulation, communication, and resilience.

Areas of focus

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

  • Emotional dysregulation

  • Trauma

  • Anxiety disorders

  • Addiction

  • Relationship challenges

Why she's on this list

  • Advanced training in DBT

  • Licensed Clinical Psychologist

  • Personalized treatment plans

  • Evidence-based therapeutic approaches

  • Virtual appointments available

Book a consultation with MorMindful to learn whether DBT therapy is the right fit for your needs.


2. Blair Mor, PsyD — MorMindful


Blair Mor, PsyD

As the founder of MorMindful, Dr. Blair Mor has helped many individuals navigate emotional challenges through thoughtful, evidence-based mental health care. She works with clients experiencing personality disorders, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation difficulties, and life transitions, taking an approach that recognizes every person's experiences and goals are unique.

Rather than applying the same treatment plan to everyone, she collaborates with each client to develop practical strategies that encourage long-term emotional wellbeing and healthier relationships.

Areas of focus

Why she's on this list

  • Founder of MorMindful

  • Licensed Clinical Psychologist

  • Extensive experience treating complex emotional concerns

  • Collaborative and personalized approach

  • Virtual appointments available

Book a consultation with MorMindful to explore personalized therapy options designed around your individual needs.


3. Sara A. Hosn, PsyD, ABPP, DBT-LBC

For individuals seeking comprehensive DBT from a highly credentialed clinician, Dr. Sara A. Hosn is widely recognized throughout South Florida. She is a board-certified clinical psychologist and a Linehan Board Certified DBT Clinician (DBT-LBC), a credential that reflects advanced training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy.

She specializes in helping individuals living with Borderline Personality Disorder, emotional dysregulation, trauma, and co-occurring mental health conditions. In addition to individual therapy, she offers comprehensive DBT services that include structured skills training.

Areas of focus

  • Borderline Personality Disorder

  • Emotional dysregulation

  • Comprehensive DBT

  • Trauma

  • Addiction recovery

Why she's on this list

  • Linehan Board Certified DBT Clinician

  • Board Certified Clinical Psychologist (ABPP)

  • Extensive experience treating BPD

  • Comprehensive DBT programs


4. Nicole A. Friedman, PsyD, DBT-LBC

With more than two decades of clinical experience, Dr. Nicole A. Friedman is another respected DBT specialist serving South Florida. As a Linehan Board Certified DBT Clinician, she provides comprehensive DBT treatment for individuals experiencing Borderline Personality Disorder, trauma, emotional dysregulation, and related mental health conditions.

Her practice includes both individual therapy and DBT skills groups, giving clients the opportunity to apply what they learn in everyday situations while receiving ongoing professional guidance.

Areas of focus

  • Borderline Personality Disorder

  • Emotional dysregulation

  • Trauma

  • Comprehensive DBT

  • DBT skills groups

Why she's on this list

  • Linehan Board Certified DBT Clinician

  • More than 25 years of clinical experience

  • Individual and group DBT programs

  • Strong focus on long-term emotional wellbeing


5. Alyssa Segal, PsyD

Finding a therapist who offers structured DBT can be especially helpful if you're looking for a treatment plan that goes beyond occasional counseling sessions. Dr. Alyssa Segal is a licensed clinical psychologist who provides comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy for individuals struggling with emotional dysregulation, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety, and related concerns.

Her approach focuses on helping clients understand the patterns behind intense emotions while developing practical skills to manage distress, improve relationships, and build a more balanced daily life. She combines evidence-based treatment with a supportive environment where clients can make meaningful, lasting progress.

Areas of focus

  • Comprehensive DBT

  • Borderline Personality Disorder

  • Emotional dysregulation

  • Anxiety disorders

  • Mood-related concerns

Why she's on this list

  • Comprehensive DBT services

  • Licensed Clinical Psychologist

  • Experience treating emotional regulation challenges

  • Evidence-based, skills-focused approach


6. Raul J. Rodriguez, MD

For some individuals, therapy alone may not address every aspect of their mental health needs. Dr. Raul J. Rodriguez is a psychiatrist who combines psychiatric care with Dialectical Behavior Therapy principles to support people experiencing Borderline Personality Disorder, mood disorders, anxiety, and emotional dysregulation.

His practice offers a multidisciplinary approach that may include psychiatric evaluations, medication management, individual therapy, and structured DBT programs. This combination can be especially beneficial for individuals whose treatment plans require both therapy and medical support.

Areas of focus

  • Borderline Personality Disorder

  • Emotional dysregulation

  • Anxiety disorders

  • Mood disorders

  • Medication management

  • Comprehensive DBT programs

Why he's on this list

  • Psychiatrist with DBT training

  • Offers medication management alongside therapy

  • Multidisciplinary treatment approach

  • Experienced in treating complex mental health conditions


7. Holly Bedotto, PsyD

For individuals looking for an intensive DBT program, Dr. Holly Bedotto is a well-recognized psychologist serving South Florida. She leads a comprehensive DBT practice that supports people experiencing Borderline Personality Disorder, trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, and other conditions involving difficulties with emotional regulation.

Her work centers on helping clients develop practical coping strategies while building healthier relationships and greater emotional stability. Through structured DBT treatment, clients learn skills they can continue using long after therapy has ended.

Areas of focus

  • Comprehensive DBT

  • Borderline Personality Disorder

  • Trauma

  • Anxiety

  • Eating disorders

  • Emotional regulation

Why she's on this list

  • Extensive DBT experience

  • Leads a comprehensive DBT program

  • Treats a wide range of emotional regulation concerns

  • Evidence-based treatment approach


What Is DBT and Who Can Benefit From It?


Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy developed to help people who experience intense emotions that are difficult to manage. While it was originally created to treat Borderline Personality Disorder, DBT is now widely used for many other mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, and emotional dysregulation.

Rather than focusing only on reducing symptoms, DBT teaches practical skills that people can apply in everyday situations. These skills help individuals respond to difficult emotions more effectively, improve communication, and build healthier relationships.



The four core DBT skill areas

DBT Skill

How It Helps

Mindfulness

Helps you stay present instead of becoming overwhelmed by thoughts or emotions.

Emotion Regulation

Teaches strategies for understanding and managing intense emotions.

Distress Tolerance

Provides healthy ways to cope during emotionally challenging situations without making things worse.

Interpersonal Effectiveness

Helps improve communication, set healthy boundaries, and strengthen relationships.

How to Choose the Right DBT Therapist


Therapist checklist infographic with icons and checkboxes: specialized experience, proper credentials, good fit, scheduling, communication.

Not every therapist offers the same level of DBT training. Before booking an appointment, it's worth asking a few questions to make sure their experience matches your needs.

Look for a therapist who:

  • Has formal training or certification in Dialectical Behavior Therapy.

  • Has experience treating Borderline Personality Disorder or emotional dysregulation.

  • Offers comprehensive DBT or clearly explains their treatment approach.

  • Provides individual therapy, group skills training, or both.

  • Makes you feel comfortable, heard, and involved in your treatment plan.

Finding the right therapist isn't about choosing the most well-known name. It's about finding someone whose expertise and approach help you feel supported throughout your recovery.


Something to Remember

DBT isn't only for people diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. Many individuals living with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, eating disorders, or overwhelming emotional reactions also benefit from learning DBT skills. The right therapist can help you build healthier coping strategies, improve relationships, and feel more confident managing life's challenges.


Questions to Ask Before Booking a DBT Therapist

Before scheduling your first appointment, consider asking:

  • Have you received formal training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy?

  • Do you provide comprehensive DBT or DBT-informed therapy?

  • Do you regularly treat Borderline Personality Disorder?

  • Will my treatment include individual sessions, group skills training, or both?

  • How do you measure progress during treatment?

  • Do you offer virtual appointments if needed?

The answers can help you feel more confident that you're choosing a therapist who aligns with your goals and treatment needs. You can also browse common questions on our FAQ page.


Looking for Compassionate DBT Therapy in South Florida?

Managing intense emotions can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate those challenges alone. At MorMindful, our experienced mental health professionals provide personalized, evidence-based care for individuals experiencing emotional dysregulation, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health concerns.

Whether you're beginning therapy for the first time or looking for a new approach, our team works with you to develop a treatment plan that supports your goals and long-term wellbeing. Contact MorMindful today to learn more about our DBT therapy services and schedule your first consultation.


Final Thoughts

Learning to manage intense emotions takes time, practice, and the right support. Whether you're living with Borderline Personality Disorder, emotional dysregulation, or another mental health condition, finding a therapist with experience in Dialectical Behavior Therapy can make a meaningful difference in your recovery.

The therapists featured in this guide each bring valuable experience and expertise to their work. By choosing a provider whose approach aligns with your needs, you'll be taking an important step toward building healthier coping skills, improving relationships, and creating lasting emotional wellbeing.

If you're looking for compassionate, evidence-based DBT therapy, MorMindful provides personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Our experienced team supports individuals facing emotional dysregulation, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health challenges through proven therapeutic approaches that promote lasting change. Schedule a consultation today to take the first step toward a healthier, more balanced future.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy that helps people manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and develop healthier coping skills. It was originally developed to treat Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) but is now used for many other mental health conditions as well.


2. Is DBT the best therapy for Borderline Personality Disorder?

DBT is widely considered one of the most effective treatments for Borderline Personality Disorder. It teaches practical skills for managing emotional dysregulation, reducing impulsive behaviors, improving communication, and handling stressful situations in healthier ways.


3. Can DBT help with emotional dysregulation even if I don't have BPD?

Yes. Many people seek DBT therapy for emotional dysregulation without having a Borderline Personality Disorder diagnosis. DBT can also help individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, eating disorders, or difficulty managing overwhelming emotions.


4. What's the difference between DBT and CBT?

Both therapies are evidence-based, but they have different goals. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, while Dialectical Behavior Therapy places greater emphasis on accepting emotions, managing distress, improving relationships, and building emotional regulation skills.


5. How long does DBT therapy usually take?

The length of DBT therapy varies depending on each person's needs. Some people attend therapy for several months, while comprehensive DBT programs often last around six months to one year. Your therapist will recommend a treatment plan based on your goals and progress.


6. Do all DBT therapists offer comprehensive DBT programs?

No. Some therapists provide DBT-informed therapy, where they use selected DBT techniques, while others offer comprehensive DBT, which typically includes individual therapy, DBT skills training groups, and additional support between sessions. It's a good idea to ask about their approach before booking an appointment.


7. Can DBT therapy be provided through virtual appointments?

Yes. Many DBT therapists in South Florida now offer secure virtual therapy sessions. Online appointments can make treatment more accessible while still allowing clients to learn and practice DBT skills with their therapist.


8. How do I choose the best DBT therapist in South Florida?

Look for a therapist with formal DBT training, experience treating Borderline Personality Disorder or emotional dysregulation, and an approach that fits your individual needs. Reading about their qualifications, treatment philosophy, and areas of expertise can help you make a more informed decision.


9. What should I expect during my first DBT therapy session?

Your first appointment usually focuses on understanding your current challenges, mental health history, treatment goals, and what you'd like to achieve through therapy. Your therapist will explain how DBT works and recommend a treatment plan that fits your needs.


10. Does MorMindful offer DBT therapy in South Florida?

Yes. MorMindful offers evidence-based therapy for individuals experiencing emotional dysregulation, personality disorders, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health concerns. The practice includes clinicians with DBT training who provide personalized care designed to help clients build healthier coping skills, improve relationships, and support long-term emotional wellbeing. Check insurance and fees to get started.

 
 

Ready to book your first appointment?

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