Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) right for me? I hear this question over and over from potential and current clients. To answer this, it’s helpful to understand basic information about DBT and how it is used.
What is DBT?
DBT is a is a type of psychotherapy based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a talk therapy that helps people understand how thoughts, emotions and behaviors are interrelated. DBT is specially adapted for people who experience emotions very intensely.
“Dialectical” means combining or balancing opposite ideas. DBT focuses on helping people accept the reality of their lives and their behaviors, while also empowering them to change their lives and any unhealthy behaviors. It focuses on self-acceptance without judgment, while also encouraging change and growth.
What is DBT used for?
American psychologist Marsha Linehan developed dialectical behavior therapy in the 1970s specifically for clients with borderline personality disorder. Since that time, DBT has been used and researched in helping to treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, substance use disorders, suicidal behavior, and self-harm.
Why does DBT work?
DBT has proved effective for the treatment of many mental health conditions because each of these conditions is thought to be associated with issues that result from unhealthy or problematic efforts to manage intense, negative emotions. DBT helps people learn healthier ways to cope, leaving clients feeling confident and equipped to deal with negative emotions.
Learn to manage difficult conversations, disappointments, criticism, overwhelming emotions or conflict without lashing out at others or engaging in self-destructive behaviors such as substance abuse, binge eating and debilitating negative self-talk.
What can I expect from DBT?
DBT is a skills-based approach to talk therapy. Clients will learn skills from four treatment modules: distress tolerance, mindfulness, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. Skills are taught in individual or group formats and then practiced at home throughout the week by the client.
DBT at MJCW
Mindful Journey Counseling & Wellness offers DBT through individual therapy as well as a DBT/Mindful Movement group. We are happy to visit with you to determine if DBT is the right course of therapy for you. Visit our website for more information about our individual services and groups.