Overview: Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy developed by Marsha Linehan in the late 1980s, originally to treat Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). DBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with concepts from Eastern mindfulness practices. The term "dialectical" refers to the idea of integrating opposites, particularly the acceptance of things as they are while simultaneously working towards change.
Key Concepts:
1. Core Skills: DBT emphasizes four main skill areas:
o Mindfulness: Cultivating awareness of the present moment without judgment, which helps individuals manage their emotions and reactions.
o Distress Tolerance: Developing strategies to tolerate and survive crises without making things worse, including techniques like self-soothing and distraction.
o Emotion Regulation: Learning to understand, manage, and change intense emotions that cause problems in life.
o Interpersonal Effectiveness: Building skills to communicate needs clearly and assertively while maintaining self-respect and relationships.
2. Validation: DBT places a strong emphasis on validating the client’s feelings and experiences, which helps build a strong therapeutic relationship and encourages self-acceptance.
3. Dialectics: The concept of dialectics in DBT involves balancing acceptance and change. Therapists work with clients to find a middle ground between opposing viewpoints or behaviors, fostering both acceptance of current realities and the motivation to make positive changes.
4. Structured Treatment: DBT typically includes individual therapy, group skills training, and phone coaching. The structured nature of DBT helps clients consistently apply the skills they learn.
Applications:
While originally developed for BPD, DBT has been adapted for treating a variety of conditions, including eating disorders, substance use disorders, and mood disorders. It is particularly effective for individuals who struggle with self-harm or suicidal behaviors.