What Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a comprehensive, evidence-based form of psychotherapy developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan in the late 1980s. Originally designed to treat individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD), DBT has since evolved to support people struggling with a variety of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, and substance abuse.
At its core, DBT blends cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness strategies. The term “dialectical” refers to the balance between two seemingly opposite ideas: acceptance and change. DBT teaches that people can accept who they are while also working toward positive change.
The Core Principles of DBT
DBT is built on several foundational principles that guide both the therapist and the client throughout treatment. These principles include:
Mindfulness
Mindfulness helps individuals become more aware of the present moment, rather than getting lost in thoughts of the past or future. It encourages observation without judgment, which leads to better emotional regulation and clearer decision-making.
Distress Tolerance
This skill teaches individuals how to tolerate pain and distress in difficult situations, without resorting to harmful behaviors like self-injury, substance use, or emotional outbursts. Through techniques like distraction, self-soothing, and radical acceptance, individuals learn to endure emotional discomfort in healthier ways.
Emotion Regulation
People often feel overwhelmed by intense emotions. DBT provides tools to help identify, understand, and manage these feelings. Learning how to label emotions, reduce vulnerability to them, and increase positive emotional experiences are key parts of this process.
Interpersonal Effectiveness
Healthy relationships are essential to mental well-being. DBT helps individuals improve communication, assert their needs, maintain self-respect, and build relationships that are both supportive and respectful.
How DBT Differs From Traditional Therapy
Traditional cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses mainly on identifying and changing negative thought patterns. While DBT includes these components, it goes a step further by integrating mindfulness and acceptance strategies. This combination allows DBT to be especially effective for individuals who experience high emotional sensitivity and difficulty managing intense feelings.
Another distinguishing feature of DBT is the structured format. Treatment typically includes:
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Individual therapy sessions that focus on personal goals and challenges.
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Skills training groups where clients learn and practice DBT techniques.
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Phone coaching for support between sessions.
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Consultation teams for therapists to maintain effective, ethical care.
At The Wise Center, our clinicians follow this multi-faceted approach to ensure that clients receive comprehensive support throughout their therapeutic journey.
Who Can Benefit from Dialectical Behavior Therapy?
Although DBT was initially created for people diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, its applications have widened significantly. Today, it is used to treat:
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Chronic suicidal ideation
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Self-harm behaviors
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Emotional dysregulation
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Eating disorders (e.g., bulimia, binge eating)
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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
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Anxiety and mood disorders
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Substance use disorders
DBT is especially beneficial for individuals who have not responded well to other forms of therapy. Its structured, skill-based model can be life-changing for those who struggle with emotional instability or relationship difficulties.
What to Expect from DBT at The Wise Center
At The Wise Center, we believe in creating a therapeutic environment where clients feel seen, heard, and supported. Our DBT programs are tailored to meet the individual needs of each person, ensuring that therapy is not only effective but also empowering.
Comprehensive Assessment
Before beginning treatment, our clinicians conduct a thorough assessment to understand your history, challenges, and goals. This allows us to create a personalized DBT plan that fits your unique circumstances.
Skilled Therapists
Our therapists are specially trained in dialectical behavior therapy and bring years of experience to each session. Whether you are attending one-on-one therapy or joining a skills group, you can trust that you’re in expert hands.
Ongoing Support
Healing doesn’t happen overnight. That’s why our DBT program includes ongoing coaching and follow-up to help clients apply their skills in real-world settings. This continued support is essential in reinforcing the tools learned in therapy.
The Life-Changing Impact of DBT
Many individuals who undergo DBT report profound changes in their ability to cope with life’s challenges. They often describe feeling more emotionally balanced, more in control of their behavior, and more connected to others.
Success in DBT requires commitment and practice, but the payoff can be substantial. Clients often experience:
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Improved relationships
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Reduced emotional reactivity
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Decreased self-destructive behaviors
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A greater sense of self-worth
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Increased resilience and stability
At The Wise Center, we have witnessed these transformations firsthand. Our clients frequently tell us that DBT helped them reclaim their lives and build a future they once thought was out of reach.
Begin Your Journey with The Wise Center
If you or a loved one is struggling with emotional dysregulation, relationship difficulties, or harmful coping strategies, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) could be the answer. At The Wise Center, we are committed to walking with you every step of the way.
