Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based modality, which means it has been scientifically proven to work. DBT is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy tries to identify and change negative thinking patterns and pushes for positive behavioral changes. DBT accomplishes this by balancing acceptance with change.

 

DBT is predominantly used to treat suicidal and other self-destructive behaviors. In addition, researchers are investigating whether DBT may be effective in treating these conditions: Mood disorders; Binge eating; ADHD; and Posttraumatic stress disorder. DBT teaches clients skills to cope with, and change unhealthy behaviors. Learning and applying DBT skills right away will help group members to build a life worth living almost immediately. 

 

Is Dialectical Behavioral Therapy for me? 

Do you ever feel like everyone else knows what is going on and what to do in situations that leave you overwhelmed, anxious, or exhausted? Practicing DBT skills may feel like being given a road map for how to manage our moods, emotions, thoughts, and relationships! We will collectively begin to identify emotions and learn what to change and what to accept. 

 

If you ever feel isolated or alone with your struggles, the community aspect of DBT Skills Training groups fosters connection and learning. A Weekly DBT Skills Training Group also provides accountability for practicing the skills in real life situations by reporting progress and barriers.

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DBT is comprised of four main modules

• Mindfulness - staying present in the present moment instead of lost in regret or anxiety about the future

• Emotion Regulation - identifying what emotions you are feeling and manage the intensity/duration

• Interpersonal Effectiveness - apply communication and relationship building skills to increase satisfaction in relationships

• Distress Tolerance - manage the ups and downs of daily living without being thrown off course 

 

What's Unique About Dialectical Behavioral Therapy?

The term "dialectical" comes from the idea that bringing together two opposites in therapy -- acceptance and change -- brings better results than either one alone.

 

A unique aspect of DBT is its focus on acceptance of a client’s experience as a way for therapists to reassure them -- and balance the work needed to change negative behaviors.

 

A DBT Skills Training Group simulates a virtual classroom experience. There is a textbook with Handouts and Worksheets for each of the skills and group members agree to complete homework assignments to practice new skills.

 

What Conditions Does DBT Treat?

DBT skills are helpful in managing: Moods; Behavior; Self-Image; Thinking; and Relationships.