Dialectical
Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a skills-based approach rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and developed by Marsha Linehan, PhD. The core premise of this theory is that certain individuals possess heightened emotional sensitivity due to various factors beyond their control. Consequently, these individuals may experience intense emotional arousal and reactivity, taking a longer time to return to an emotionally regulated state. Such emotional reactivity can result in significant emotional fluctuations and a feeling of being overwhelmed by emotions.
Unfortunately, our society often struggles to comprehend or accept such intense emotional responses, leading even well-meaning individuals to invalidate or downplay these emotions. As a consequence, sensitive individuals may lack proper guidance and support to effectively cope with and regulate their emotional experiences, with invalidation further intensifying their emotional reactivity.
“Mindfully recognizing being overwhelmed already reduces the feeling of being overwhelmed.”
– Lilian Cheung
DBT integrates the practice of mindfulness to effectively manage emotional experiences and enhance the understanding of emotions before they escalate into intense reactions. By cultivating present-moment awareness, individuals can anchor themselves in the here and now, enabling them to respond to challenging situations rather than impulsively reacting based on intense emotions. The skills in DBT are divided into three key domains: distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. Initially taught separately, these skills are eventually merged to create a cohesive and comprehensive approach that empowers people to cope with and transform unhealthy or counterproductive behaviors and responses.
Originally designed to address Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has proven highly effective in managing the complexities of suicidal ideation, self-harm, and other self-destructive behaviors frequently associated with intense emotional encounters. As emotional struggles are an intrinsic part of the human experience, and considering that our culture often disregards emotions, DBT has been adapted and found to be successful in treating a range of other conditions, including depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, substance abuse, and eating disorders. The valuable skills acquired through DBT can be utilized in combination with other therapeutic approaches, benefiting everyone by enabling them to recognize and regulate their emotional experiences, leading to improved relationships and personal growth.
Do not learn how to react. Learn how to respond.”
–Unknown
I have experience as a former co-facilitator in DBT groups and received training from Marsha Linehan’s Behavioral Tech. As a result, I am proficient in integrating DBT skills into various forms of individual therapy. For individuals participating in DBT group therapy at an outpatient facility, I can also serve as a DBT individual therapist.