Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy that was originally developed to treat individuals with borderline personality disorder. However, it has since been adapted to treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance use disorders.
DBT is based on the idea that individuals experience emotional distress when they struggle to regulate their emotions effectively. This emotional dysregulation can lead to impulsive behaviors and difficulties in interpersonal relationships. DBT aims to help individuals develop skills to regulate their emotions, tolerate distress, and improve their interpersonal relationships.
The therapy is typically delivered in a group setting, although individual sessions may also be included. The group sessions focus on developing four key skill sets:
Mindfulness: The ability to be fully present in the moment and observe one's thoughts and feelings without judgment.
Distress Tolerance: The ability to tolerate difficult emotions and distressing situations without engaging in self-destructive behaviors.
Emotion Regulation: The ability to identify and manage emotions in a healthy way, and to reduce emotional reactivity.
Interpersonal Effectiveness: The ability to communicate effectively and assertively, and to develop and maintain healthy relationships.
DBT also includes individual therapy sessions that focus on problem-solving and goal-setting, as well as phone coaching outside of therapy sessions to provide additional support in managing crises or difficult situations.
One of the unique features of DBT is its focus on validation. DBT emphasizes the importance of validating the experiences and emotions of individuals, even when their behaviors may be maladaptive. This approach helps to build trust and rapport between the therapist and client, and creates a safe and non-judgmental environment for healing and growth.
Overall, DBT is an evidence-based therapy that has been shown to be effective in improving outcomes for individuals with a range of mental health conditions. By helping individuals develop skills to regulate their emotions, tolerate distress, and improve their interpersonal relationships, DBT can help individuals live more fulfilling and satisfying lives. If you are struggling with emotional dysregulation, DBT may be a helpful therapy to explore with a mental health professional.