Integrating Diversity into DBT: Dialectical Principles and Clinical Applications

Crafted by skillful DBT experts, this unique guide provides state-of-the-art concepts and strategies for more inclusive, effective practice with socioculturally diverse clients. The authors show how recognition and validation of clients' cultural identities and experiences of marginalization mesh perfectly with DBT principles such as dialectics, humility, beginner’s mind, and a therapeutic relationship between equals. Guidance is provided for understanding and assessing clients' intersecting identities, tailoring the Diary Card and other interventions to overcome sociocultural gaps, and applying diversity concepts both in individual sessions and with the DBT team. The book also invites clinicians to self-reflect on how their own worldview and assumptions affect their DBT delivery. Helpful features include case illustrations, Clinician Pro Tips, and reproducible/downloadable forms.

Lizbeth Gaona, PhD, LCSW, is Associate Professor in the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences at California Baptist University. Dr. Gaona was intensively trained in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) in 2010 and has extensive experience as a DBT clinical consultant and supervisor in community mental health programs. A bicultural, bilingual Latina educator and clinician, she has a particular focus on the provision of culturally relevant DBT for monolingual Spanish-speaking, low-acculturated Latinx clients. From 2014 to 2015, Dr. Gaona served as Director of the DBT-ACES program at the Harbor–UCLA Adult Outpatient Psychiatric Clinic. She is a past board member for the Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies and spearheaded the inception of its Diversity Action Committee.

Lisa Bolden, PsyD, MA, is a clinical psychologist dedicated to providing compassionate, research-backed therapy to individuals, couples, families, and groups. Beyond clinical work, she is deeply involved in community mental health, practitioner training, and research, with a focus on ethnic disparities in mental health and culturally proficient care. Dr. Bolden served as Program Site Director for the DBT-ACES program at Harbor–UCLA Adult Outpatient Psychiatric Clinic from 2008 to 2023. As cofounder of a multisite private practice and mental health nonprofit, she collaborates with agencies, universities, and professionals to enhance advocacy, treatment, and inclusion in the mental health field.

Katherine Anne Comtois, PhD, MPH, is Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Adjunct Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Washington. She was a research therapist and co-investigator with Marsha Linehan on her clinical trials from 1994 to 2006 and Director of the DBT program at Harborview Mental Health and Addiction Services from 1996 to 2019. She now leads the DBT standard and training programs at the University of Washington Medical Center Outpatient Psychiatry Clinic. In addition to leading the development of DBT Next Steps and the DBT-ACES program, Dr. Comtois provides training and consultation in standard DBT, DBT Next Steps, and DBT-ACES internationally.