Are you curious about DBT? Known as dialectical behavior therapy, this therapeutic technique got its start treating borderline personality disorder. However, today, it has been found successful in treating a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, addictions, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
What Is DBT?
Marsha Linehan, Ph.D., developed dialectical behavior therapy in the 1980s, and the therapy is influenced by the philosophy of dialectics, which is balancing opposites. It involves finding ways to promote balance, avoid black and white thinking, and hold two opposite perspectives simultaneously.
The goal of DBT treatment is to provide individuals with skill development to help them manage painful or difficult emotions and decrease relational conflicts. It focuses on developing skills in four primary areas:
- Mindfulness—helping the client to be present in and accept the current moment.
- Distress tolerance—teaching the client how to increase their personal tolerance of any negative emotions, rather than trying to avoid or escape them.
- Emotion regulation—learning strategies to manage and change problem-causing emotions.
- Interpersonal effectiveness—developing techniques that help the individual to communicate assertively while maintaining self-respect and strengthening relationships.
What to Expect from Dialectical Behavior Therapy
The treatment typically involves individual therapy sessions and sometimes DBT group therapy for skills development. It is essential to work with a qualified, trained DBT therapist to ensure all needs are properly addressed. Our experienced Positive Living Psychotherapy team works with clients to maintain motivation and learn to apply the new DBT skills in daily life, addressing obstacles that may occur during the course of treatment.
Connect with Positive Living Psychotherapy for Effective DBT Treatment
At Positive Living Psychotherapy, you can find licensed therapists who specialize in DBT treatment. Reach out to our compassionate staff today to schedule a free phone consultation.