Dialectical Behavioral Therapy… What is it?
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What is DBT?
DBT, or Dialectical Behavior Therapy, is a specialized form of psychotherapy that has its foundations rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and various emotion-focused therapeutic approaches. This unique therapeutic method emphasizes teaching individuals essential skills to effectively manage their intense emotions, cope with particularly challenging or stressful situations, and ultimately improve the quality of their interpersonal relationships.
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What does DBT involve?
At Mindful Tides Therapy, our DBT program includes these 4 components:
Individual therapy: Clients meet weekly with their therapist to work on goals, reduce harmful behaviors, and improve their skills.
Skills group: Clients meet weekly to learn mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. We offer both in-person and virtual options facilitated by our licensed clinicians.
Phone coaching: Clients can call their therapist anytime for real-time advice on using their skills in daily life (not for emergencies).
Consultation team: DBT therapists come together for training, advice, and support.
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Who can DBT help?
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) was first developed to provide support and treatment for individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Over time, it has evolved to address a wider range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, self-harming behaviors, and impulsive actions. The skills that are taught and practiced in DBT can significantly assist individuals in coping with severe emotional distress, effectively managing their emotions, and maintaining a sense of presence and mindfulness in their daily lives.
Let’s work together
Interested in our DBT program? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly! Or contact one of our three DBT-trained therapists directly, from our Meet the Team page