WHAT IS DBT?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy was created by Dr. Marsha Linehan, Ph.D., founder of The Linehan Institute and Behavioral Tech. Dr. Linehan developed DBT to provide clinical support to individuals living with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Research has shown that DBT is also an effective treatment modality for individuals struggling with other personality traits, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and substance use. DBT has been found to be effective with the adolescent population as well, particularly when relating to self-harm, suicidal ideation, and emotion dysregulation. This therapeutic modality provides clients with skills to work towards fulfillment of their individualized life worth living goals.
DBT for adults consists of four skills modules: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
DBT for adolescents and families consists of five skills modules: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and walking the middle path.
For more information on the research supporting DBT visit: https://behavioraltech.org/research/how-dbt-helps/
HOW DO YOU INCORPORATE DBT INTO YOUR PRACTICE?
I completed the Foundational DBT Training through Behavioral Tech. I utilize a DBT-informed approach with adolescents and adults who may benefit from this treatment modality. The DBT-informed approach can also be implemented into couples and family therapy.
DBT-INFORMED PSYCHOTHERAPY VERSUS COMPREHENSIVE DBT
An outpatient, comprehensive DBT program includes the following components: client participation in a weekly DBT skills group, individual DBT therapy, access to skills coaching, therapist participation in a weekly DBT meeting with colleagues, and other additional sessions deemed clinically appropriate to support the client’s presenting needs. Additional sessions may include but not limited to: an additional individual therapy session per week, family therapy, couples therapy, individual DBT skills coaching sessions, weekly skills group sessions, weekly parent DBT skills coaching sessions.
A DBT-informed approach does not include all of the components listed above. You individualized treatment plan is based on needs and therapeutic goals. I collaborate with other treatment providers with whom you currently meet with, as well as provide clinical referrals as needed. When working with teens, parent skills coaching sessions are available to parents to supplement their child’s individual therapy.
Please reach out to discuss if a DBT-informed approach aligns with your therapeutic needs!
