Written by: Lauren Aikin-Smith (She/They) PhD, LCSW, CHES
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a specialized form of cognitive-behavioral therapy developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Marsha Linehan. DBT is an evidence-based treatment based on the concept of balancing opposites—acceptance and change—allowing individuals to find a middle ground between their emotional experiences and reality.
DBT has shown effectiveness in treating a range of issues, including:
- Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) – DBT is primarily recognized for its effectiveness in treating BPD, by managing intense emotions, improving relationships, and reducing self-destructive behaviors.
- Suicidal Behaviors – DBT has shown significant success in reducing suicidal ideation and self-harm. DBT emphasizes skills to tolerate distress and manage crises effectively.
- Mood Disorders – Including depression and bipolar disorder by helping to regulate emotions and cope with mood fluctuations.
- Substance Use Disorders- by supporting a focus on managing emotional distress and reducing harmful behaviors.
- Eating Disorders – DBT assists in developing healthier relationships with food and body image by addressing emotional triggers.
Techniques
- Mixture of Individual Therapy & Groups Skills Training – Clients engage in one-on-one therapy sessions focused on applying DBT skills to their personal challenges and experiences. Participants may also attend group sessions to learn and practice DBT skills in a supportive environment, promoting peer interaction and shared experiences.
- Mindfulness – Enhancing present-moment awareness to reduce emotional distress.
- Distress Tolerance – Building resilience and coping strategies for managing crises without resorting to harmful behaviors.
- Emotional Regulation – Learning to identify, understand, and manage intense emotions effectively.
- Interpersonal Effectiveness – Improving communication skills to maintain healthy relationships while respecting oneself and others.
- Behavior Chain Analysis – Helps clients understand patterns and develop alternative responses.
- Validation – Helps build trust and rapport while encouraging clients to explore and address challenging issues.
- Problem-Solving – collaborative problem-solving techniques to identify goals, break them down into manageable steps, and develop strategies to achieve them.
Conclusion
Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a transformative approach that combines acceptance and change to help individuals navigate emotional challenges and improve their quality of life. With its structured framework and diverse techniques, DBT effectively addresses various mental health issues, especially those characterized by emotional dysregulation. By fostering essential skills and promoting self-acceptance, DBT empowers individuals to lead more fulfilling and balanced lives. If you or someone you know struggles with emotional difficulties, exploring DBT may be a valuable step toward healing and personal growth.
If you would like to further explore DBT and see if this treatment method is right for you, make an appointment with one of our therapists by emailing info@elementspgh.com or calling 412-336-8832.
The information contained in this blog does not replace professional treatment of diagnosis and is for educational purposes only.
