Dialectical Behavioral Therapy

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a type of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Dialectical Behavioral Therapy expands on CBT by incorporating techniques and skill sets that incite validation, respect, and equality within the client-therapist partnership. DBT is unique in its employment of dialectics, a philosophical approach aimed at integrating seemingly incompatible concepts. By implementing strategies of change and acceptance the client learns safe and successful methods of handling conflict. DBT is a combination of behavior therapy which promotes change, and mindfulness training promoting acceptance. As a behavioral treatment, DBT works to change maladaptive behaviors using a variety of practices including contingency management, shaping, and stimulus control. As an acceptance-based treatment, DBT stresses the use of mindfulness skills and validation. Treatment integrates both behavioral change and mindful acceptance throughout every aspect of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.

The main goal of DBT is to teach the patient skills to manage conflict, regulate emotions, improve interpersonal relationships, and cope with stress. This treatment achieves this by serving five fundamental functions for the patient. (1) DBT enhances behavioral capabilities in the form of skills training. (2) Motivation to change is improved by individualized behavioral treatment plans. (3) DBT assures that the patient’s new abilities generalize to the natural environment. (4) The treatment environment is structured in ways that support client and therapist capabilities, and adaptive behaviors are reinforced. (5) DBT enhances therapist capabilities and motivation to treat clients effectively. These fundamental functions are implemented through the following practices: individual psychotherapy, group skills training, phone consultations, client assignments, and therapist consultation team.

DBT helps people that react abnormally to emotional stimulation and who don’t have any strategies for coping with these sudden, intense surges of emotion. People with the following disorders may greatly benefit from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy: depression, substance use disorders (addiction/alcoholism), bipolar disorders, eating disorders, impulse-control disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, psychotic disorders, and borderline personality disorder.