Dialectical Behavior Therapy
DBT is derived from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and aims to teach people ways to live in the present moment and cope with stress in healthier ways. Additionally, DBT helps individuals learn to better regulate their emotions as well as improving relationships with others. This form of therapy gained popularity in recent years by helping treat those living with borderline personality disorder (BPD) but it’s also useful in treating eating disorders, substance use disorders, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. Not only that, DBT has been found to be useful in helping those struggling with generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, OCD, and suicidal behavior.
This form of therapy can be done individually or in a group format. Another way this therapy can be provided is through phone coaching, or patients having the ability to call their therapist between sessions. This is an option for those who may find themselves in a troublesome situation and would like guidance from their therapist.
There are four core models used to teach critical skills through this therapy which includes core mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and emotional regulation. Core mindfulness teaches individuals to focus on the present moment while simultaneously focusing on one thing without judging yourself or others. Distress tolerance is used during stressful situations to help teach acceptance over things you do not have control over. This in return helps improve problem solving, increase one's mood, reduce self-harming behavior, and learn to utilize self-soothing techniques. Interpersonal effectiveness helps people form healthy relationships while caring for oneself whether that be navigating conflicts better or stating what you need. Lastly, emotional regulation helps individuals clearly define the emotions they are experiencing without judging themselves.
If you are someone who feels empty or hopeless, experiences difficulty handling their emotions, or has a specific mental health condition DBT helps treat, let us at Perspectives Anew Therapy guide you through your healing journey. With three different clinicians certified in DBT on site the possibilities are endless.