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Dialectical Behavioural Therapy

Dialectical Behavioural Therapy
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Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a structured, evidence-based form of psychotherapy that helps individuals regulate emotions, improve relationships, and develop coping strategies for distressing situations. It was originally developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan to treat borderline personality disorder (BPD) but has since been adapted for other mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, and substance use disorders.

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What is DBT?

The “D” in DBT stands for dialectical. Within the structure of DBT, dialectics refer to the integration and synthesis of opposites. This can look like being able to take on multiple perspectives, being able to integrate various points of view before jumping to conclusions and taking the “middle path”. The “B” in DBT refers to Behavioural. DBT borrows some tools from CBT in this sense by also focusing on behavioural changes which help people live happier and healthier lives. The concept of acceptance is added to the behavioural change piece in DBT as the theory believes that it is only through acceptance of where one is that change can actually occur. By balancing validation and acceptance of where the client is at with eliciting change, the DBT therapist can encourage better choices and empower the client to take action.

4 Key Skills of DBT

DBT also has four main skills which are thought to be core elements which can help people solve problems when they arise. They are:

  1. Mindfulness – Staying present in the moment without judgment.

  2. Distress Tolerance – Coping with crises in a healthy way rather than resorting to impulsive behaviors.

  3. Emotion Regulation – Understanding and managing intense emotions.

  4. Interpersonal Effectiveness – Communicating needs effectively while maintaining boundaries and self-respect.

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