Dialectical Behavior Therapy
What Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy?
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a structured type of psychotherapy. It was developed decades ago by psychologist Marsha Linehan, who specialized in working with patients struggling with suicidal ideation. DBT has undergone some changes over the years, and today, it is recognized as an effective, evidence-based treatment that is appropriate for individuals who are struggling with emotion regulation.
When is DBT recommended?
DBT is most widely recognized as appropriate for the treatment of individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD). BPD is a mental illness that leads to the substantial loss of emotional control. People who suffer from BPD typically experience severe mood swings and dramatic reversals in opinions about themselves and other people. Patients with BPD may perceive people or things in extremes—either all good or all bad, with no gray areas. BPD can be difficult to live with, and patients often find that they have trouble maintaining stable relationships. Dialectical behavior therapy may be able to help, however.
Although DBT is most often recommended for patients with BPD, it may be appropriate for other individuals, as well. Your therapist may recommend dialectical behavior therapy if you have trouble regulating your emotions. It may be an effective treatment modality for those who struggle with any of the following issues:
- Thoughts of self-harm
- Self-harming or suicidal behaviors
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Binge eating disorder and bulimia
- Substance use disorder
- Depressive disorders
- Anxiety disorders
When you visit a provider at Integrated Behavioral Health, we’ll conduct a comprehensive assessment to get to know you and your unique challenges. We can help you decide if dialectical behavior therapy could be an appropriate treatment for you.
What should I expect from DBT?
At Integrated Behavioral Health, we believe in the importance of customizing each patient’s treatment plan to suit their unique needs. Although your recommended DBT treatment may differ slightly, the standard treatment schedule for patients undergoing DBT is as follows:
- Individual therapy – You may meet with your therapist for one session per week, typically lasting for one hour.
- Group session – You may attend a group skills training session once each week for about 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
- Remote crisis counseling – Sometimes, DBT includes telephone crisis counseling, which enables you to contact your therapist by phone between sessions during predetermined times.
What are the benefits of DBT?
DBT involves an intense therapeutic process that patients must genuinely commit to in order to see progress. Although every patient is different, many have reported the following benefits:
- Less anger
- Better ability to function in social situations
- Less frequent, less intense suicidal thoughts and behaviors
- Shorter hospitalizations
Note that while DBT may be recommended for individuals with substance use disorder, it is not generally considered a standalone treatment for substance abuse. Individuals struggling with addiction will typically need additional treatment modalities to overcome their challenges, although DBT can serve as a complementary treatment.
Is DBT right for me?
Only a mental health provider can determine if dialectical behavior therapy could be the right choice for you. To schedule a thorough assessment, contact Integrated Behavioral Health at one of our eight locations across Alabama. Our professionals provide individualized, compassionate care within a non-judgmental environment.