Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Specialist in Cedar Rapids, IA

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a powerful form of psychotherapy that aligns closely with our holistic philosophy. It has proven effective for a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

DBT is rooted in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), but it sets itself apart by weaving together principles of acceptance and change—a balance that reflects our holistic belief in honoring where you are now, while supporting you in moving toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. The concept of “dialectics”—that two seemingly opposite things can both be true—is central to DBT and mirrors our approach of integrating multiple perspectives and healing modalities for optimal wellness.

Our DBT program is structured to include individual therapy, group skills training, and between-session support such as phone coaching. This multi-layered support ensures that clients not only learn practical tools in the office but are also empowered to apply these skills in their daily lives, fostering lasting change.

A key component of DBT—and of our practice as a whole—is the focus on mindfulness, or being present in the moment. We also emphasize distress tolerance (coping with difficult emotions and situations), emotion regulation (managing and transforming intense feelings), and interpersonal effectiveness (improving communication and relationships)—all of which are essential to holistic mental and emotional health.

Unlike many traditional therapies, DBT at Holistic Wellness and Psychiatry is collaborative and deeply supportive, encouraging open communication between therapist and client, and nurturing a therapeutic partnership that extends beyond the therapy room.

DBT is a form of psychotherapy specifically designed to help individuals manage intense emotions and navigate distressing situations more effectively—key components of holistic mental health.

In our practice, DBT is used to support clients in developing emotional regulation skills. This means learning to identify, understand, and transform emotional responses in a healthier way. We guide individuals to become more aware of their emotional triggers, accurately label what they’re feeling, and implement strategies that reduce emotional vulnerability. By doing so, our clients can break free from unhelpful patterns and respond to life’s challenges with greater adaptability, aligning with our holistic philosophy of mind-body wellness.

Distress tolerance is another essential aspect of DBT that fits seamlessly into our integrative approach. Many people struggle with impulsive or self-defeating behaviors in times of crisis. At Holistic Wellness and Psychiatry, we teach practical DBT techniques—such as mindfulness, acceptance, and crisis survival skills—that help clients cope with immediate emotional pain in safe, constructive ways. These skills foster greater resilience, self-control, and the ability to navigate life’s difficulties without resorting to harmful behaviors.

By incorporating DBT into our comprehensive treatment plans, we empower individuals to manage their emotions constructively and face adversity with confidence and stability.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy originally developed to support individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD). BPD is often characterized by intense emotional ups and downs, challenges in relationships, impulsive behaviors, and chronic fears of abandonment. DBT is widely recognized as the gold standard for treating BPD because it directly addresses emotional dysregulation and self-destructive patterns, helping patients build resilience and inner balance.

DBT at Holistic Wellness and Psychiatry

While DBT is highly effective for BPD, its principles extend far beyond this diagnosis. Our holistic practice integrates DBT for a variety of mental health concerns, including:

• Mood Disorders: DBT can help those experiencing depression or bipolar disorder, particularly when emotional regulation is a challenge.
• Trauma and PTSD: For individuals living with trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder—especially when symptoms include impulsivity or self-harming behaviors—DBT offers practical skills for coping and self-compassion.
• Eating Disorders: Conditions like bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder often involve difficulties with emotional control. DBT provides tools for healthier coping and mindful eating.
• Substance Use Disorders: Because substance misuse frequently co-occurs with other mental health issues, DBT’s focus on managing urges and cultivating healthier habits supports recovery.
• Chronic Suicidality and Self-Injury: DBT is also effective for people experiencing ongoing thoughts of suicide or self-harm, offering structured techniques to reduce risk and promote safety.

A typical DBT program at our practice generally lasts between six months to one year, though the timeline is personalized based on each individual’s unique needs and goals. Some patients find significant benefit in a shorter period, while those with more complex mental health concerns may engage in ongoing DBT support beyond a year. Our flexible and patient-centered approach ensures that every treatment plan aligns with your holistic wellness journey.

DBT at Holistic Wellness and Psychiatry involves a structured combination of weekly individual therapy sessions, weekly DBT skills training groups, and as-needed phone coaching for in-the-moment support. In individual sessions, our trained DBT therapists collaborate with you to address personal challenges, manage crises, and build motivation to use new coping strategies. These skills are not only essential for managing difficult emotions and improving relationships—they also foster greater self-awareness and resilience, key components of holistic well-being.

Throughout DBT, we emphasize a balance between acceptance and change, helping you accept yourself as you are while also developing healthier behaviors and thought patterns. With a focus on practical application, you’ll use tools like homework assignments, diary cards, and regular skills practice to integrate what you learn into everyday life. This integrative approach ensures that emotional healing is supported by ongoing encouragement and real-world skill development.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a specialized therapeutic approach designed to help individuals manage intense emotions and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Dr. Laurie McCormick, MD, DFAPA, a board-certified psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience, integrates DBT into her holistic approach to mental health care. By addressing both mental and physical well-being, Dr. McCormick’s approach makes DBT an essential part of her comprehensive treatment for emotional regulation, interpersonal difficulties, and trauma-related challenges.

Dr. McCormick’s unique approach combines DBT principles with her expertise in integrative psychiatry. She understands that traditional DBT techniques—focusing on mindfulness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness—can be highly effective when personalized to meet the individual’s needs. With an emphasis on healing the root causes of emotional distress, such as trauma and spiritual imbalance, Dr. McCormick helps her patients create lasting change by addressing both practical skills and inner healing. Her compassionate, individualized care ensures that patients feel supported throughout their DBT journey, allowing them to manage difficult emotions while building resilience and self-acceptance. Her holistic treatment approach integrates DBT with other therapies like Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), functional medicine, and mindfulness-based practices, providing comprehensive support for overall mental well-being.

At Holistic Wellness and Psychiatry, our supportive, collaborative environment is designed to empower you to build a meaningful, balanced life. By combining evidence-based therapies like DBT with holistic wellness principles, we help you achieve emotional health, resilience, and a greater sense of overall well-being. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are located at 42 7th Ave SW, Suite 100 & 102 Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. We serve patients from Cedar Rapids IA, Hiawatha IA, Marion IA, Robins IA, Fairfax IA, Mt Vernon IA, and surrounding areas.