Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), for the uninitiated, is a part of cognitive behavioral therapies. It focuses on two critical aspects to help a patient – acceptance and change. The use of dialectical behavior therapy was initially limited for those with suicidal behavior and borderline personality disorder. Today, many centers for chemical dependency treatment MN rely on DBT, and it is also being used for the treatment of anxiety, depression, and integrated dual disorder treatment. In this post, we are discussing more on dialectical behavior therapy.
The background of dialectical behavior therapy
DBT, or dialectical behavior therapy, was developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan in 1980s. The initial idea was to help patients with borderline personality disorder, and it is based on the concept of what is called dialectics. With DBT, therapists assume that all things are interconnected, and the change in a patient’s behavior will only occur when he/she is accepting of their current state. The patient is asked to be aware and understand his/her present emotions, and further suggestions and exercises are recommended for improving their response to such emotions. The purpose of DBT is to ensure that patients have complete control of how they feel and use their emotions, and that can help in changing behavioral patterns.
How does DBT work?
Mostly, DBT is recommended for people over the age of 18 years, and the treatment requires visit to a clinic, at least thrice or more per week. This could be a mix of many things, but always a DBT therapist will work with the patient at an individual level to help them, and there will be group sessions, where they will be asked to share experience and learn more of behavioral skills. There will be assignments, exercises and homework to complete, and in between all of these sessions, there is phone coaching where people can call their therapist as needed to get more guidance.
There is no denying that DBT has helped patients around the world, and it is of great use for those who are prone to self-harm and injury. As a patient, you will be in more control of how the treatment shapes you, and therefore, DBT is not just about medications and therapy. There is considerable involvement of the therapist, and think of this as a more comprehensive means of treating mental health issues. You can find more details on DBT when you visit a center for the first consultation.
