Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

DBT is an evidence-based therapy that was originally developed by Marsha Linehan, PhD to address the suffering experienced by people with borderline personality disorder. It has since been successfully applied to a multitude of mood and anxiety problems, difficulties in relationships, and personality disturbances. It combines cognitive behavioral approaches with mindfulness and Zen principles. Notably, it is increasingly viewed as a transdiagnostic approach, meaning that it is effective for a variety of different possible diagnoses. DBT attunes to the underlying cause of human distress and suffering: difficulties with tolerating and regulating emotions and trouble with social interactions.

The term “dialectical” means a synthesis of opposites; it is an idea that two seemingly paradoxical things can be true at the same time. DBT teaches that there is always more than one way to look at a situation, and aims to help us move away from black and white thinking or other extreme positions. One of the key dialectics in DBT is that of balancing acceptance and change. Throughout treatment, clients learn to radically accept their present-moment experience and also work towards making changes that are congruent with their vision of a life worth being present to. DBT teaches skills in four distinct areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. DBT therapists have a strong emphasis on validation, understanding, and a willingness to go where others may be afraid to. DBT is a collaborative approach in which the therapist and client both commit to showing up fully to each session.