Dialectial Behavior Therapy

What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy?

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) provides clients with new skills to manage painful emotions and decrease conflict in relationships. DBT encourages change, but also promotes acceptance.

The term “dialectic” means that two opposite ideas can be correct at the same time. This is helpful for individuals in mental health and/or substance abuse treatment, as most of these clients adopt an “all or nothing view.”

The treatment modality appeals to many as they navigate recovery; they can accept their difficulties and work towards changing them. Individuals learn to avoid either/or thinking (“I’m either recovered or I’m stuck with this disorder forever”) which can help them challenge other all-or-none thinking typical of some mental health and addiction disorders.

DBT specifically focuses on providing therapeutic skills in four key areas:

  • Mindfulness – includes learning how to make decisions based on both emotional and rational input, and reducing judgmental thinking
  • Emotional regulation – teaches how to identify different feelings, as well as how to make oneself less vulnerable in the first place to extreme shifts in emotions
  • Interpersonal effectiveness – involves the mastery of assertiveness techniques, including asking for help and the challenging task of saying “no” to others
  • Distress tolerance – helps individuals gain skills for coping with crises, such as distraction and self-soothing

We’re Here for You

If you or someone you know is struggling, we’re here for you. Discovery Mood and Anxiety Program specializes in treatment for mental health, substance abuse, and dual diagnoses, by creating unique programs to help every individual find their way to recovery. For more information, resources, or to consult with one of our specialists, call 714.828.0808.

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