Dialectical Behavior Therapy, a treatment that is interestingly called, is Dialectical Treatment.
You’re not as lost as I was when the term first came up. This article will explain what DBT is and how it works. It also includes some useful and practical components.
You can read the following to find out more, whether you’re a participant in Dialectical behavior Therapy, a therapist looking for DBT worksheets for clients, or simply a curious person.
What is Dialectical Behavior therapy? Here is a definition.
Dialectical Behavior therapy (DBT), a type cognitive-behavioral treatment, focuses on psychosocial aspects. It emphasizes the importance of a collaborative relationship and support for the client.
DBT was originally created to treat suicidal thoughts. However, it has evolved into a treatment that can be used for other conditions that affect dysfunctional emotional regulation. It is the current “gold standard” in borderline personality disorder treatment and has been used to treat substance abuse and eating disorders (Linehan Institute n.d.).
DBT can be described by its two main components.
- Sessions of individual therapy weekly;
- Weekly group therapy sessions.
Sessions of Individual Weekly Therapy
The individual sessions provide a chance for the client and therapist to discuss the issues and find solutions. Particular attention is paid to self-destructive and potentially self-harmful behavior. These behaviors are not only worrisome but can also disrupt treatment and lead to unmet treatment goals.
In these sessions, clients and therapists work together as a team to learn and improve their social and coping skills. They might also discuss general issues that can improve the client’s life quality or specific issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder.
Weekly Group Therapy Sessions
Weekly sessions are intended to build skills, but clients learn with guidance from therapists rather than one-on-one.
These sessions last approximately two hours and are focused on one of the following four skill areas.
- Effective interpersonal relationships
- Accept reality and stress tolerance;
- Regulation of emotions
- Mindfulness skills.
