Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical behaviour therapy is an evidence-based psychotherapy developed by Dr Marsha Linehan, in the 1980s for people with suicidal thoughts who also often lived with borderline personality disorder (BPD). The goal of DBT is to “life worth living”. A meaningful, fulfilling life looks different for each person. Research has found that beyond BPD, DBT may be a promising treatment for range of other complex mental health presentations including.;

• eating disorders, such as binge eating
• substance use disorder in adults and teens
• co-occurring substance use and BPD
• depression
•  bipolar disorder

DBT is highly structured psychotherapy and teaches the critical skills through these four modules:

Core mindfulness

Core mindfulness skills, adapted from Eastern meditation practices, teach you to become more aware of the present moment. You learn to focus on one thing at a time, without judging yourself or others.

Distress tolerance

When difficult situations and problems arise in your life, instead of getting stuck in thought patterns Distress tolerance teaches acceptance and tolerance to situations. Accepting things, you don’t have control over can help you solve problems and improve low moods.

Emotion regulation

Emotion regulation skills help you label your emotions without judging them. You learn how different emotions shape your behaviour and what obstacles prevent you from managing your emotions.

Interpersonal effectiveness

In this module, you learn the skills to create healthy relationships while taking care of yourself. Interpersonal effectiveness includes working through conflict, listening well, and clearly asking for what you need.