Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, or DBT, is a type of cognitive-behavioural therapy designed to help people manage intense emotions, reduce self-destructive behaviours, and improve relationships. It was originally developed to support individuals with borderline personality disorder but has since been adapted to treat a variety of mental health challenges, including mood disorders, trauma, and self-harm.

DBT combines acceptance and change. It helps individuals accept their feelings and experiences as valid while also working to develop skills that promote healthier ways of coping and living.

DBT focuses on four core skill areas:

1.     Mindfulness: Cultivating present-moment awareness and acceptance.

2.     Distress Tolerance: Building the ability to tolerate and survive crises without making things worse.

3.     Emotion Regulation: Learning to understand and manage intense emotions effectively.

4.     Interpersonal Effectiveness: Developing skills to communicate clearly and maintain healthy relationships.

Therapy usually involves a combination of individual sessions, group skills training, and phone coaching to support applying skills in everyday life.

Overall, DBT aims to help people build a life worth living by balancing acceptance with practical strategies for change.