Dialectical Behaviour Therapy

What is Dialectical behaviour Therapy (DBT)?

Dialectical behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy specifically designed to help individuals who experience intense emotions. Originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder (BPD), DBT has since been adapted for other conditions involving emotional dysregulation. It focuses on providing therapeutic skills in four key areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.

How DBT Works

DBT combines individual therapy sessions with DBT skills training groups. In individual therapy, clients work on addressing their specific issues, while group sessions focus on learning and practicing DBT skills. The therapy emphasizes the balance between acceptance and change, helping clients accept themselves and their current situations while working towards positive change. Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, breathing exercises, and role-playing are commonly used.

Conditions Treated by DBT

DBT is particularly effective for conditions involving severe emotional distress and impulsive behaviors, including:

• Borderline personality disorder (BPD)

• Suicidal behavior and self-harm

• Eating disorders (such as binge eating disorder)

• Substance abuse

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Depression

Who Can Benefit from DBT?

DBT is beneficial for individuals who struggle with intense emotions and have difficulty managing their responses to these emotions. It is suitable for those who need a structured approach to develop coping skills and improve their emotional and interpersonal functioning. DBT requires a strong commitment to the therapeutic process and is most effective for clients willing to engage in both individual and group therapy component.