DBT
Our Clinical Psychologists have training in DBT
What is DBT?
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a specialised form of cognitive-behavioural therapy developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan in the late 1980s, specifically to treat individuals with chronic emotion regulation difficulties, including borderline personality disorder (BPD). Over time, DBT has been adapted to help people with various mental health conditions, such as depression and eating disorders.
How Does DBT Work?
DBT combines cognitive-behavioural techniques with concepts from Eastern mindfulness practices. It focuses on balancing acceptance and change through four key components:
- Mindfulness: Enhancing clients’ ability to be present in the moment and aware of their thoughts, feelings, and surroundings without judgment.
- Distress Tolerance: Building skills to cope with and tolerate intense emotions without resorting to self-destructive behaviours.
- Emotion Regulation: Helping clients understand and manage their emotions more effectively, reducing emotional vulnerability and reactivity.
- Interpersonal Effectiveness: Teaching skills to improve communication and relationships, enabling clients to assert their needs and set boundaries while maintaining respect for others.
Benefits of DBT
- Effective for Extreme Emotion Regulation Difficulties: DBT is particularly effective for individuals who struggle with severe and persistent emotional dysregulation, such as those with BPD or suicidal tendencies.
- Skill Development: Clients learn practical skills that can be applied in everyday life, helping them to manage stress, improve relationships, and make healthier decisions.
- Evidence-Based: Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of DBT in reducing self-harm, suicidal behaviours, and hospitalisations, as well as improving overall mental health.
Considerations
DBT requires a commitment from clients, as it often involves weekly homework assignments. The approach is collaborative, with a strong emphasis on the therapeutic relationship and active client participation.
Conclusion
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy offers a robust framework for individuals seeking to manage intense emotions and improve their quality of life. By integrating mindfulness and acceptance strategies with practical behavioral skills, DBT empowers clients to create lasting positive change. If you could benefit from DBT, consider reaching out to us for a free consultation.