An In-Depth Look at Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a cognitive-behavioral treatment approach with a core philosophy derived from dialectical thinking, which integrates opposites to form a more comprehensive view of reality. Developed by psychologist Marsha M. Linehan in the late 1980s, DBT was initially intended to help individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD) manage their intense emotional swings, self-destructive behaviors, and problematic interpersonal relationships. Over time, the application of DBT has extended to other mental health disorders associated with emotion dysregulation.

Understanding the Dialectical Philosophy

DBT's term "dialectical" refers to finding balance and synthesis between opposites. In the context of DBT, this typically means balancing acceptance and change. Therapists working with DBT principles validate their clients' experiences as real and acceptable while encouraging them to change destructive behaviors. The dialectical approach is considered a significant part of DBT. It guides the therapist's relationship with the client, helping clients see the validity of their thoughts and feelings while encouraging personal growth.

Components of DBT

DBT is a structured, multimodal treatment typically involving four components: individual therapy, group skills training, phone coaching, and therapist consultation team.

Individual therapy: These are one-on-one sessions between the therapist and the client, usually conducted weekly. The therapist helps clients apply DBT skills to their unique personal challenges and life events.

Group skills training: These weekly group sessions feel like a classroom setting. Here, clients learn and practice DBT skills alongside others.

Phone coaching: This involves the client contacting their therapist outside of sessions for guidance in applying DBT skills to real-life situations.

Therapist consultation team: This is a support system for the therapists, where they meet and consult with other DBT professionals to ensure they follow DBT principles correctly and prevent therapist burnout.

DBT Skills

The skill training component of DBT focuses on teaching clients four sets of behavioral skills: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.

Mindfulness skills: These are designed to improve a person's ability to accept and be present in the current moment.

Distress tolerance skills: These aim to increase a person's tolerance of negative emotion rather than trying to escape it.

Emotion regulation skills: These help clients understand the emotions they experience, reduce emotional reactivity, and improve emotional resilience.

Interpersonal effectiveness skills: These allow individuals to communicate with others assertively, maintain self-respect, and strengthen relationships.

Grouport offers DBT skills that participants can learn in a therapist-led environment. Our therapists cover the fundamentals of the four modules of dialectical behavior therapy. Participants will get to apply these skills in a safe, inclusive environment. Find out more about our program in our dialectical behavior therapy skills group.

The Therapy Process in DBT

A DBT therapist usually follows a hierarchical process when treating clients. This process allows the treatment to be structured and focuses on the most severe issues first. The hierarchy includes addressing life-threatening behaviors such as self-harm and suicidal thoughts first, followed by therapy-interfering behaviors that might hinder treatment progress. Following these, issues affecting the quality of life are addressed, and finally, clients work towards improving their life skills and capacity for joy and fulfillment.

Evidence-Based Benefits of DBT

Research has shown that DBT can effectively treat a range of mental health issues, not just Borderline Personality Disorder, for which it was initially designed. These conditions include eating disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance use disorders. DBT's approach to teaching practical skills and techniques to manage emotions and reduce conflict in relationships can be helpful for anyone struggling with emotional dysregulation.

DBT is effective in reducing suicidal behavior, non-suicidal self-injury, psychiatric hospitalization, treatment dropout, substance use, anger, and depression, and improving social functioning.

The Role of Mindfulness in DBT

Mindfulness, a core component of DBT, involves non-judgmentally focusing on the present moment. It allows individuals to develop an awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and sensations without reacting impulsively. This can be particularly beneficial for those who struggle with emotional instability and impulsivity, as it can provide a way to manage intense emotions and reduce self-destructive behaviors.

The Impact of DBT on Mental Health

By providing individuals with practical skills and techniques to manage their emotions, reduce conflict in relationships, and handle distress, DBT has proven to be an effective treatment for various mental health disorders. It's a powerful therapy that enables individuals to live more fulfilling lives, manage their symptoms effectively, and improve their overall quality of life. As more individuals and mental health professionals understand the tenets and applications of DBT, its impact on improving mental health outcomes continues to grow.

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Grouport Offers Online Group Therapy & Online DBT Skills Group

Grouport Therapy provides online group therapy for anger management, anxiety, borderline personality, chronic illness, depression, dialectical behavior therapy, grief and loss, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship issues and trauma and PTSD. Our licensed therapist leads weekly group sessions conducted remotely in the comfort of members' homes. According to participant feedback, 70% experienced significant improvements within 8 weeks.

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You don't have to face these challenges alone. Join our community and work together towards a brighter future. Sign up for one of our courses today and begin your journey towards meaningful, lasting change and renewed hope.

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Due to licensing restrictions, our online group therapy sessions are for Florida, New York, and New Jersey residents. If you are not a resident of either state, consider our dialectical behavior therapy skills group. It is a therapist-instructor-led online group that will teach you strategic new skills to replace behaviors and emotions causing friction in your daily life and relationships. It is excellent for interpersonal connections and building social skills concerning relationship issues.

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