Understanding Dialectical Behavior Therapy with Dr. Kiki Fehling

In this episode

We explore Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) as more than just a clinical approach—it’s a practical framework for navigating emotions, relationships, and the challenges of everyday life. We talk about how DBT skills like self-soothing, mindfulness, and emotion regulation show up outside the therapy room, especially for those living with trauma, emotional overwhelm, or distress intolerance. We also discuss how personal experiences shape professional work, the impact of technology on mental health, and why cultural awareness and human connection are essential in effective therapy. Throughout the conversation, we emphasize that growth and healing are ongoing processes, not destinations, and that learning to stay present with ourselves is a skill that can be practiced and strengthened over time.

Meet my guest

Dr. Kiki Fehling is a clinical psychologist, author, and Linehan-Board-Certified expert in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Known for her ability to translate complex psychological concepts into practical, usable tools, Kiki is deeply committed to making evidence-based mental health care accessible and compassionate. Her work focuses on emotion regulation, trauma, suicide prevention, and LGBTQ+ mental health, and she speaks nationally to both medical and community audiences. Beyond her clinical and educational work, Kiki shares evidence-based mental health information with more than 75,000 followers across her social media platforms, helping people apply DBT skills in real, everyday moments.

You can connect with Dr. Kiki here:

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dbtkiki

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dbtkiki

The podcast content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice.