Emotional Regulation
Learn to ride the waves of emotion instead of being swept away
Understanding Emotional Regulation
Emotional regulation is the ability to manage and respond to your emotions in healthy ways. It doesn't mean suppressing feelings or never getting upset—it means having the tools to navigate intense emotions without being controlled by them.
Some people are naturally more emotionally sensitive or reactive. This isn't a character flaw—it's often related to biology, childhood experiences, or past trauma. Therapy teaches practical skills to help you respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.
- Emotional Sensitivity - Feeling emotions more intensely than others
- Reactivity - Quick, intense emotional responses
- Mood Swings - Emotions that shift rapidly
- Difficulty Calming Down - Emotions that linger or escalate
Signs You May Struggle with Emotional Regulation
Emotional dysregulation shows up in many ways. You might benefit from therapy if you're experiencing:
Emotions that feel overwhelming or out of proportion
Reacting impulsively in ways you later regret
Difficulty calming down once you're upset
Rapid mood shifts that feel hard to control
Avoiding situations because you fear your emotional response
Relationships affected by emotional outbursts or shutdowns
How We Help with Emotional Regulation
DBT Skills Training
Learn proven techniques for managing emotions
Mindfulness Practice
Develop awareness to respond rather than react
Understanding Triggers
Identify what activates intense emotions
Ready to Manage Your Emotions Better?
You can learn to navigate intense emotions without being controlled by them. Schedule a free consultation to learn about your options.
Emotional Regulation FAQs
What is DBT and how does it help with emotional regulation?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) was developed specifically to help people manage intense emotions. Our DBT skills groups teach four key skill sets: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. These practical tools help you respond to emotions more effectively.
Why do I feel emotions so intensely?
Emotional intensity can stem from many factors—biology, temperament, childhood experiences, or trauma. Some people's nervous systems are simply more reactive. Therapy helps you understand your patterns and develop skills that work for your specific situation.
Can I learn to control my emotions?
Rather than controlling emotions (which often backfires), we focus on learning to regulate them—to experience emotions without being overwhelmed or acting impulsively. You can't always control what you feel, but you can learn to manage how you respond.
Is emotional dysregulation connected to ADHD?
Yes, emotional dysregulation is common with ADHD. People with ADHD often experience emotions more intensely and have difficulty shifting away from emotional reactions. We address both ADHD and emotional regulation together.
What about anger management?
Anger is one of the emotions people most commonly struggle to regulate. Therapy helps you understand your anger triggers, develop healthy ways to express anger, and reduce impulsive reactions you later regret.
Would individual therapy or groups be better for me?
Both can be helpful! DBT groups provide structured skills training and peer support, while individual therapy offers personalized attention to your specific patterns. Many people benefit from doing both.
Do you offer telehealth for emotional regulation therapy?
Yes! We offer virtual therapy sessions throughout Arizona and Utah, including telehealth DBT groups. We also offer in-person sessions at our Mesa, Arizona office.