Dialectical Behavior Therapy in Somers Point, NJ

At GIA, we understand the overwhelming feeling of managing intense emotions, relationship struggles, or impulsive behaviors. If you or someone you love is feeling stuck in cycles of distress, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) offers a structured, skills-oriented path forward.

Dena Tartaro leads our DBT programs with compassion, clarity, and deep clinical skill. Whether you’re in crisis or simply ready for a change, the team at GIA, located in Somers Point, NJ, is here to support you. We offer individual and group DBT sessions online and in-person.

What is DBT?

At its core, DBT helps people learn to:

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    Regulate overwhelming emotions without shutting down

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    Improve relationships through healthier communication

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    Tolerate distress without resorting to self-destructive behaviors

  • Stay present, even during hard moments

Meet Our DBT Supervisor

Dena Tartare specializes in providing DBT to adolescents and adults who feel like their emotions are “too much” or not enough. With her genuine warmth and sharp wit, she knows how to get right to the point while putting people at ease. She’s passionate about working with individuals who often feel misunderstood, overwhelmed, or on edge, and she’s known for creating a space where it's safe to be yourself.

Dena brings extensive training in DBT, trauma-informed care, and attachment-based therapy, and she works collaboratively with clients to help them build real-world coping skills, shift painful and self-defeating patterns, and find the best parts of themselves and others. Whether you’re navigating crisis moments or looking to develop long-term emotional strength, Dena meets you where you are—with honesty, warmth, and skill.

Who Can Benefit From DBT?

DBT is especially effective for:

  • Teens and young adults with intense mood swings, self-harm, or risky behaviors

  • Adult men and women with complex trauma, relationship difficulties, or emotional dysregulation

  • People who struggle with black-and-white thinking or feelings of emptiness

  • Individuals managing Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) or similar patterns

  • Clients who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or self-criticism

  • Anyone who needs more structure, accountability, and skills in their healing

At GIA, we also support parents and families throughout this process, helping them understand the DBT model and how to best support their loved one, both in and out of session.

What Does DBT Therapy Look Like at GIA?

We offer both individual DBT therapy and skills-based support, tailored to your specific needs. Sessions may focus on:

  • Emotion regulation strategies to manage mood swings and reactivity

  • Distress tolerance tools to help you get through crisis moments

  • Interpersonal effectiveness to improve boundaries and communication

  • Mindfulness to stay grounded and reduce reactivity

  • Self-compassion and identity work for those with shame or inner criticism

Dena works relationally and holistically, tailoring DBT tools to your unique personality and experiences. This isn’t a cookie-cutter approach—it’s real therapy for real life.

Ready to Try DBT Therapy?

If you're in New Jersey and wondering if DBT is the right fit for you or your loved one, we invite you to reach out. Whether you’re facing a crisis or simply ready for a change, the team at GIA is here to support you