Growth Thru Change

Dialectical Behavior Therapy in Philadelphia

DBT in Center City, Philadelphia. Virtual DBT sessions are available across Pennsylvania.

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Our DBT therapists in Philadelphia are here to support you as you navigate change.

Gain emotiional stability

Develop better relationships

Break free from harmful habits

DBT Group Pricing and Structure

Our comprehensive DBT program is designed to offer consistent support and flexibility. Here’s a breakdown of the offerings and pricing:

Group Meets Virtually on Thursday Evenings from 7pm-8:30p

When your emotions control your life, it’s easy to feel broken.

Letting emotions take over your life can leave you feeling overwhelmed and out of control. You find yourself walking on eggshells around friends, family, and colleagues, unsure why you react the way you do. Over time, it’s easy to believe this is just who you are—flawed in a way that can’t be changed. The exhaustion of feeling powerless against your emotions can leave you longing for balance and freedom.

At Growth thru Change, we provide DBT therapy in Philadelphia to help you turn this challenge into a source of strength.

One moment, I'm fine, the next, I'm completely overwhelmed... I never know when the switch will flip.

The sudden shift from feeling fine to completely overwhelmed can leave you feeling out of control, as if your emotions are unpredictable and overwhelming. This constant uncertainty can make it hard to trust yourself or navigate daily life without the fear of an unexpected emotional flood.

At Growth thru Change, we offer DBT in Philadelphia to provide you with the tools and strategies to help you turn your emotions into a source of strength.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy in Philadelphia

Dialectical Behavior Therapy Can Help With:

DBT Therapy in Philadelphia

What Makes Our Dialectical Behavior Therapy Program Unique?

At Growth Thru Change, we think of DBT as more than a place to learn coping skills. It’s a space where you can understand yourself more deeply while also learning practical tools that actually help in real life.
 
Yes, we teach the core DBT skills — how to regulate emotions, manage distress, and improve relationships. But we also focus on what’s happening underneath the surface. Why do certain patterns keep repeating? Why do some relationships feel so hard? How do you hold two truths at once — “I’m doing my best” and “I need to change”?
 
In our groups, skill learning and real connection happen at the same time. You’re not just talking about communication skills — you’re practicing them in the room. You’re not just learning about emotional regulation — you’re noticing what comes up in real time and working through it with support.
 
The group becomes both a learning space and a relational experience. It’s structured, thoughtful, and engaging — but also human. A place to challenge old stories, try new ways of relating, and build tools that you can actually carry into your everyday life.

DBT Might Be Right For You If You Are Experiencing:

DBT Therapy in Philadelphia

Types Of Dialectical Behavior Therapy In Philadelphia

Weekly DBT Skills Training group

Gain peer support and connection with others working toward similar goals.

Weekly DBT skills training group

You and other members of our DBT program will learn evidence-based skills to regulate emotions, improve interpersonal effectiveness, and manage crisis situations.

Weekly DBT Skills Training Group

Build distress tolerance skills for managing crises and intense emotions without making things worse.

Weekly DBT Skills Training Group

Learn practical mindfulness tools to stay present and reduce reactivity.

Get Started Today With DBT at Growth thru Change

Helping you grow through change so you can live on your terms. Visit us for Dialectical Behavior Therapy online in Pennsylvania

Dr. Sophia Brandstetter
PsyD, LCSW

Founder & Clinical Director

about Us | Therapy in Philadelphia

Why Work With
Growth thru Change

“It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.” - E.E. Cummings,

Change is hard. Doing it on your own is even harder. Our mission is to get to the root of the problem that is keeping you from creating a change that allows you to live fully as you.

We provide expert support to help you heal and grow and give you the tools you need to move forward with confidence and a belief in yourself that will carry you through your days.

Our diverse team of expert clinicians offers personalized care backed by extensive experience. We prioritize ongoing professional growth to ensure our therapists provide evidence-based support tailored to your needs.

Specializing in DBT, EMDR, and psychodynamic therapy, we help clients regain confidence, improve relationships, and approach life’s challenges with resilience and clarity.

We support your growth, through change.

Supporting your mental health journey with expert care.

Client-centered care

We tailor our therapeutic approach to meet your specific needs & we create a space where you’ll feel understood & empowered.

Empowerment through insight

We help you understand your thoughts, emotions, & behaviors, giving you the framework to create meaningful, lasting change.

Holistic healing

We address psychological, social, emotional, & relational factors, supporting holistic healing and helping you live life on your terms.

DBT Therapists In Philadelphia

Match With A DBT Therapist

Our team of skilled DBT therapists brings diverse specialties to support your needs. Visit our therapist page to learn more about each team member. Virtual DBT therapy across Pennsylvania & New Jersey. 

Charlie Burditt

Licensed Associate Counselor
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Megan Lederman

Licensed Professional Counselor
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Amy Gillaspie

Licensed Social Worker
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Our Approach | DBT Therapy in Philadelphia

How Therapy At Growth thru Change Works

1. Start Where You Are

We meet you where you’re at, without judgment. This is about understanding what’s going on in your life and what’s bringing you here so you can begin to take that first step, at your own pace.

Together, we’ll examine what’s beneath the surface—whether it’s long-standing struggles or recent challenges.

Therapy isn’t just about addressing surface-level issues; it’s about understanding the root cause. We will work with you to get to the heart of what’s been holding you back.

As you apply new tools and perspectives, we’re here for continued support and real talk, celebrating your progress along the way and adapting as your needs evolve.

We focus on making meaningful progress that feels authentic to you. Therapy isn’t about quick fixes—it’s about building the tools and resilience to navigate life’s complexities in a sustainable and realistic way.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy In Philadelphia

Frequently Asked Questions About Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Unlike traditional talk therapy, DBT is a structured program that teaches specific skills you can use right away. Think of it like learning to drive – you get both classroom instruction (group skills training) and hands-on practice (individual therapy). You’ll learn:

  • Concrete techniques for managing intense emotions
  • Practical skills you can use in real-life situations
  • Strategies that work even during an emotional crisis
  • Ways to build a life worth living, not just cope with problems

Most people begin to notice changes within 8-12 weeks of consistent practice. You’ll likely experience initial relief from learning basic coping skills, followed by gradual improvement in emotional control. By 3-6 months, you may notice better relationship stability, and within 6-12 months, significant transformation in how you handle stress.

Remember: DBT is like learning a new language – you’ll pick up useful phrases quickly, but fluency takes time and practice.

DBT was specifically designed for individuals who feel that other therapies haven’t worked. It is unique because it balances accepting who you are while working on change, provides phone coaching for crisis moments, and teaches skills that are effective even during intense emotions. It combines individual therapy with group skills training and is supported by extensive research proving its effectiveness.
No, while DBT was originally developed for BPD, it can help anyone who experiences intense emotions, struggles with impulsive behaviors, has difficulty in relationships, feels overwhelmed by stress, or uses unhealthy coping mechanisms.

DBT combines four main components:

Individual Therapy (Weekly): You work one-on-one with your therapist to address specific challenges and apply skills to your unique situation.

Skills Group (Weekly): You learn new coping techniques, practice them with others, and share experiences and strategies.

Phone Coaching: You receive support during crisis moments, apply skills in real time, and prevent problems from escalating.

Homework Practice: You apply skills in your daily life, track your progress, and build confidence through real-world success.

Each of these components works together to help you build a life that feels worth living, not just surviving.

Have other questions?
Get in touch with Growth thru Change.

DBT Therapy in Philadelphia

Possible Outcomes of DBT

DBT fosters personal growth, emotional resilience, and healthier relationships. As you continue in DBT, you may notice improvements in your life, such as:

A trusted name in healing journeys

Stories from Our Clients

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claire raab
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Growth Thru Change in Philadelphia is an exceptional mental health practice that truly shines. They offer a comprehensive range of services, from individual and couples therapy to specialized support for anxiety, depression, and trauma. Their expertise extends to navigating grief and loss, strengthening relationships, building self-esteem, managing stress, and successfully transitioning through life's challenges. If you're seeking compassionate, skilled therapists in Philadelphia, Growth Thru Change is an outstanding choice."
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Andy Sutton
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I've known Sophia professionally for over a month now, and I can attest that she is very passionate about Growth Thru Change offering high-quality mental health care. She's determined to have her clinicians provide only the best for their clients. I highly recommend Growth Thru Change for anyone in Pennsylvania looking for help with their mental health!
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Jodi Warren
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Growth Thru Change offers a compassionate and supportive environment that made me feel comfortable from the start. With my therapist I developed a deeper understanding of myself. I’m truly grateful for the positive changes I’ve experienced since starting therapy here.
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Rina Teich
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Growth thru change has really helped me clear my mind and learn how to navigate life with better tools. I stress a lot less knowing i have someone to talk to about life’s issues who is experienced and calming. Thank you!
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Rochelle Wizmur profile picture
Rochelle Wizmur
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I am so grateful for Dr. Sophia and Growth Thru Change. Dr. Sophia is very attentive, a great listener, and offers really great strategies and solutions for overcoming difficult life situations. Dr. Sophia always makes me feel calm and cared for. She treats me as she would treat her own family member. I am lucky to have found an amazing therapist like Dr. Sophia.
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Karen Smith
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Awesome practice. Talented, engaged therapists. They have all my professional respect.
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Elizabeth Earnshaw
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Sophia is a wonderful therapist. She is kind, compassionate, and highly ethical in the work she does. I am always confident to refer to her and her team :)
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Susan Rovello
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As a a psychotherapist myself I know what to look for when seeking help. As a recipient of services I have to say that I could not have received more professional and compassionate care. The degree of expertise and the careful attention to comfort and safety are unparalleled. I highly recommend!!

therapy in Philadelphia

Get Started With Growth thru Change in Philadelphia

If you’re ready to begin therapy at Growth thru Change, you can reach out using our contact form. If you’d prefer to skip this step and get started right away, simply click the button below to schedule a free consultation with the clinician of your choice.

To book an appointment or a free consultation with one of our therapists, click the button below.

Center City
1625 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146
East Falls
3580 W Indian Queen Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19129

Virtual therapy sessions are available across Pennsylvania and New Jersey

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Dialectival Behavior Therapy in Philadelphia

Growth thru Change

Our experienced DBT therapists are here to help you live on your terms—confidently!