Marsha Linehan Obituary: DBT Pioneer Reportedly Dies at 83

The psychology and mental-health communities are mourning the reported death of Dr. Marsha M. Linehan, the influential American psychologist who developed Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), an approach that transformed treatment for people experiencing severe emotional distress and borderline personality disorder.

A message shared within the professional DBT community reports that Linehan died on November 10, 2026. The message, signed by Linda Dimeff, Jennifer Sayrs, Shireen Rizvi and Lizz Dexter-Mazza, describes her final days following hospitalisation for pneumonia and asks colleagues and members of the wider community to respect her family’s privacy.

Linehan’s contribution to psychology extended across decades of research, clinical practice and professional education. She developed DBT initially to address suicidal behaviours, with the treatment later becoming an established approach for borderline personality disorder and other conditions involving serious emotional dysregulation.

She served as Professor Emeritus of Psychology at the University of Washington and was associated with its Behavioral Research and Therapy Clinics. Her work helped bridge scientific research and practical treatment, influencing clinicians and researchers around the world.

Linehan also authored influential books and treatment manuals, including Building a Life Worth Living, her memoir about her life and the development of DBT. Her professional achievements were recognised through numerous awards for research and contributions to clinical psychology.

The reported news of her death has prompted reflection on the impact of her work among colleagues, practitioners and people who have benefited from DBT.

Further memorial information should be shared in accordance with announcements from her family and authorised representatives. This article may be updated as additional reliable information becomes available.