Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that originated in the late 20th century. Developed by psychologist Marsha Linehan, its primary use is in treating individuals with chronic emotional instability, particularly those diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. DBT blends traditional cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices derived from Buddhist meditative traditions, leading to several core principles that guide its functioning. Understanding these principles is crucial for anyone considering undergoing this therapy themselves or using it professionally.
The Core Principles of DBT
Support-Oriented
The first principle of DBT is that it is support-oriented. DBT therapists work to boost their patients’ self-image and encourage them to discover their strengths and build on them. They help individuals to value their lived experiences while making sense of their narratives, creating empowerment and enhancing self-confidence.
Cognitive-Based
As part of its cognitive-based principle, DBT helps patients identify thoughts, beliefs, and assumptions that make life harder and guides them towards considering better ways to maneuver through these issues. It focuses on the concept of dialectics – incorporating the thought processes of acceptance and change, thereby encouraging balance and avoiding black and white or all or nothing thinking.
Collaborative
DBT is collaborative in nature—the therapist and patient work together in therapy. There is no predetermined hierarchy; the therapy is an alliance where both parties participate and contribute. This approach fosters mutual respect and understanding, which is vital in the therapy process.
Behavioral
Given that DBT is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy initially, one of its fundamental principles is based on behavioral science. This aspect of DBT includes helping patients learn and apply new skills, particularly in the areas of mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
Mindfulness-Based
Finally, DBT heavily incorporates mindfulness-based practices. Derived from Buddhist meditative traditions, mindfulness is integrated into DBT and focused on being fully present and engaged in the present moment without judgment. This approach enables one to sit with and accept their feelings and thoughts as they are, rather than trying to push them away or reacting impulsively to them.
Conclusion
Understanding the core principles of DBT can assist us in recognizing the unique properties of this therapeutic approach. Its support-oriented and cognitive-based nature, along with its collaboration and derivation from behavioral science and mindfulness practices, make it a comprehensive therapy that targets several aspects of one’s psychological well-being. Individuals considering DBT as a therapeutic intervention must understand these principles to make informed decisions about their mental health treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is DBT best suited for?
DBT was initially developed to treat individuals with borderline personality disorder. However, its effectiveness in treating a variety of mental health conditions, such as depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and eating disorders, has been recognized. Its effectiveness can also be seen in managing self-harming behaviors and substance abuse.
How does DBT differ from traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
While both therapies share several similarities, DBT differs in its unique focus on validation and dialectics. DBT places significant importance on accepting and acknowledging patients’ experiences, whereas traditional CBT might focus more on challenging or reshaping thoughts and beliefs. Furthermore, DBT’s incorporation of dialectics – balancing acceptance and change in one’s thoughts and behavior – is also a unique feature not regularly seen in traditional CBT.
What does a typical DBT session look like?
DBT treatment typically includes individual therapy sessions, group skills training sessions, and between-session coach calls. In individual therapy, the therapist and patient work collaboratively, discussing and working on overcoming challenges related to the patient’s life. Group sessions focus more on teaching skills across four modules: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
What is the role of mindfulness in DBT?
Mindfulness in DBT refers to the practice of being completely aware and engaged in what is happening in the present moment, without judgment and without trying to push away difficult emotions or reactions. This can be an empowering skill for patients, allowing them to sit with their emotions, understand them, and manage them effectively.
