Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
What is DBT?
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a structured program of psychotherapy aimed at teaching skills to manage intense emotions and improve social relationships. Initially designed to curb self-destructive impulses, it has found use in treating various mental health conditions such as borderline personality disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use disorder, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. DBT consists of weekly group instruction meetings and individual therapy sessions for six months to a year. The therapy focuses on four key areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
How Does DBT Work?
DBT incorporates cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques and teaches clients to recognize and challenge distorted thinking underlying negative feelings and prompt unproductive behavior. It also emphasizes mindfulness, helping clients keep a present focus, slowing down emotional reactivity, and affording time to summon healthy coping skills in distressing situations. The therapy helps clients recognize, understand, label, and regulate their emotions and handle interpersonal situations that give rise to negative or painful emotions.
Clients complete a diary card to track individualized treatment targets relating to moods, behavior, and skills. In individual sessions, clients review difficult situations and feelings and engage in problem-solving by actively discussing ways of behaving that might have delivered a positive outcome. Because DBT is a demanding therapy, therapists typically work in consultation with a treatment team regularly.
How To Get Started With DBT Therapy?
When looking for a DBT therapist, individuals should ensure that the therapist is trained and experienced in the therapy, is licensed or certified, and is regularly supervised by a senior DBT therapist. The therapist should be able to explain the goals of therapy and the strategies they will use, and clients should feel comfortable asking questions and discussing concerns with the therapist. Reach out to us at Horn Counseling so we can help you find a DBT therapist in your area.
In conclusion, DBT is an evidence-based therapy that teaches skills to manage intense emotions and improve social relationships. It is finding application as a treatment for a wide range of mental health conditions and consists of weekly group instruction meetings and individual therapy sessions. Clients should expect to practice their skills between sessions and complete homework assignments on mastering relationship challenges. DBT is an ongoing process that requires a continuous Socratic dialogue with the self and others.
