🧠 Why You Only Have One Therapist in DBT: What You Need to Know

If you’re starting Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) or thinking about it, you might wonder:

“Can I keep seeing my current therapist while I do DBT?”

It’s a great question—and the answer might surprise you.

In standard DBT, we ask that you do not work with another individual therapist while you’re in the program. That might feel like a big deal, especially if you already have a trusted provider. So let’s walk through the why behind this guideline and what it means for your care.

DBT is a Comprehensive Treatment Program

DBT is more than just a therapy style—it’s a structured treatment program that includes:

• Individual therapy
• DBT skills group
• Phone coaching (as needed)
• A team of therapists working behind the scenes on your behalf

Because of this setup, your DBT therapist isn’t just another therapist—they’re the main person helping you navigate life, emotions, and goals during treatment. Think of them as the “hub” that helps you put all the pieces together.

Why One Therapist?

Here’s why DBT recommends having just one individual therapist while you’re in the program:

• Consistency: You and your DBT therapist are working together on specific goals and skills. If you’re seeing someone else at the same time, it can create mixed messages or confusion about what to focus on.
• Safety: Your DBT therapist is trained to help you manage crises, urges, and intense emotions. If another therapist doesn’t use DBT or approaches situations differently, it can accidentally increase risk or make you feel stuck.
• Teamwork: Your therapist is part of a consultation team—a group of DBT providers who meet regularly to support your treatment. That’s one reason they need to be your primary therapist: they’re backed by a whole team focused on your progress.

What About My Current Therapist?

If you’re already working with someone you trust, it’s okay to feel unsure about stepping away. Many clients have that experience. Here’s what we recommend:

• Have a conversation with your current therapist about transitioning to DBT. Most providers understand the structure and support DBT offers.
• Keep the door open: DBT isn’t forever. Once you’ve completed the program or are ready to step down, you can always return to your previous provider if that feels right.

❤️ What If I Have Other Support People?

It’s totally okay (and often helpful!) to still see:

• A psychiatrist or medication provider
• A case manager
• A support group or recovery group (like AA, NA, or others)

As long as your DBT therapist is the one guiding your individual therapy work, other supportive roles can still be part of your care network.

✅ Bottom Line

In DBT, we ask you to commit to one therapist who becomes your main support while you’re in the program. This allows for:

• A clear focus
• Unified treatment goals
• A strong, supportive relationship that’s backed by a whole DBT team

If you have any questions or worries about this, we’re always here to talk it through with you. You deserve support that’s clear, connected, and working fully in your favor.

Reach out – Rachael@middlepathmo.com