What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a comprehensive cognitive-behavioral treatment originally developed to treat chronically suicidal individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD). However, it has proven helpful for other mental health conditions as well.

DBT combines principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy with concepts like mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness skills. The "dialectical" aspect refers to the integration of seemingly opposing strategies – acceptance and change.

A key component of DBT is learning mindfulness practices to cultivate a non-judgmental present awareness. Clients develop skills to more effectively regulate intense emotions, tolerate distress, improve relationships, and make positive behavioral changes.

DBT typically involves weekly individual therapy sessions along with skills group training. The group format allows clients to practice using DBT skills and get feedback in a supportive environment.

This therapy helps clients become more aware of their thoughts and behaviors, learn to accept themselves, cope with difficult emotions in a healthy manner, and make positive life changes.