Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) focuses on four key aspects: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness to help clients deal with issues from depression to PTSD and has been shown to improve self-confidence and strengthen relationships.

I incorporate adapted DBT strategies into sessions to support emotional regulation and effective communication, but I do not provide a full-fidelity DBT program. A full DBT program includes individual therapy, skills training classes, phone coaching, and a therapist consultation team. I can provide referrals for skills classes, if desired.

Email for a free 15-minute consultation

Areas of Focus

Populations served 

Abuse
​Anxiety
Borderline Personality
Bipolar 
Depression
Divorce
Domestic Violence
Family Conflict
Gender & Sexuality
Grief
​Panic Attacks
Parenting

​Peer Relationships
​School/Work Issues
Self Esteem
Self-Harm
Sleep & Insomnia
Spirituality
Stress
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma and PTSD

• ​Activists and Care Takers 
• Families of Loved Ones with Severe Mental Illness
• High-achievers
• LGBTQ+
• People-pleasures
• Pre & Post Residential Treatment Planning and Support

More on my background and how I work here.

Kara Petersen, LMFT (she/her)​​
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #145462
5565 Carpinteria Avenue, Carpinteria, CA 93013
[email protected]
(805) 707-2074​

​"Speaking and listening are a form of psychic breathing."                                                                           -​Carol Gilligan