DBT - Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a type of psychotherapy specifically tailored for people who are having trouble coping with intense emotions. Difficulties with emotional regulation can contribute to a host of mental health problems, especially borderline personality disorder. Like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), it can teach you how to identify and correct unhealthy patterns in your thinking or behavior, specifically relating to emotions.
How DBT Works
DBT is an intensive form of therapy, often conducted both in group sessions consisting of 4-10 people, and one-on-one sessions with a therapist. The “dialectical” in DBT refers to balancing opposites; the goal of the therapy is to start a dialogue between you and others, and also you and your own feelings.
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DBT will work on improving your skills in four psychological techniques:
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Mindfulness: The ability to be aware of the present moment, recognize your thoughts and feelings, and acknowledge that even the worst ones are temporary.
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Distress tolerance: The ability to cope with difficult situations by managing your emotions and avoiding lashing out in unhealthy ways.
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Interpersonal effectiveness: Understanding how to communicate your wants and needs clearly with others. Asking directly for what you need can avert a lot of emotional distress.
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Emotion regulation: Learning how to control your emotions so that they will no longer control you.
What DBT Can Treat
DBT is helpful in treating mental health disorders that involve emotional dysregulation, including:
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Personality disorder
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Self-harm
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Suicidal behavior
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Substance use disorder
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PTSD
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Eating disorders such as bulimia and binge eating
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Anxiety
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Depression
Like other forms of therapy, DBT involves some “homework” assignments such as keeping a detailed journal of your emotions. It can be difficult and uncomfortable to face your own feelings, but acknowledging them is the first step in learning how to manage them.
DBT is offered at Elevated Healing Treatment Centers in Woodland Hills. Contact us if you think you or a loved one could benefit from this intensive treatment approach.
Contact
Monday-Friday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm.