Modality

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Combining cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices.

DBT is a comprehensive therapy combining cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices. Developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan in the late 1980s and originally created to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT has since been adapted to address a wide range of mental health issues characterized by emotional dysregulation and impulsive behaviors.

The skills taught in DBT fall into four modules: mindfulness (focusing on the present moment non-judgmentally), distress tolerance (coping with crisis situations without making them worse), emotion regulation (understanding and managing intense emotions), and interpersonal effectiveness (navigating relationships assertively and effectively).

What to expect

DBT typically consists of individual therapy sessions, group skills training, and phone coaching for crisis situations. The full DBT program usually lasts at least six months to a year, though elements of DBT can be incorporated into other treatment approaches for those unable to commit to a full program.

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