Show 291 - What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy?

Before talking about Dialectical Behavior Therapy,  I want to give a brief reminder of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy aka CBT.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a short term treatment that provides skills on how to transform negative thoughts and behaviors. Traditionally, CBT is offered to people with an anxiety disorder, depression and other mental health conditions.

There are a number ways to do this but the general format is to:

• Assess where you are right now.
• What is your view of yourself, your attitude about yourself and how you function with those beliefs.
• Skills and tool building process to help you deal with your symptoms and other blocks you experience.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a variation of CBT, the goals are the same but there are some differences. 

DBT was originally created as treatment for suicide treatments, Borderline Personality Disorder, then eating disorders, some types of addictions and is now used for PTSD and anxiety conditions. It is actionable focus, meaning you actively apply the skills and techniques as you learn them. 

There is a connection with mindfulness. There is also a focus on acceptance and finding ways to change what you can to improve the quality of your life..

In this episode, a review of CBT and a brief dusting on the concepts of DBT.

If you need support contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, the Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386 or text “START” to 741-741.

Resources Mentioned: 

ADAA video on What is DBT? You can view it on YouTube or the ADAA website.

From Humor That Works the 5 Daily Habits app for both Android and iOS. Simple app but gets the job done. Works on older devices and it is a totally free app.

Everyday Health page on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Very Well Mind page on Dialectical Behavior Therapy

DBT-LBC.org is a website that has a listing of certified DBT therapists in the US and Canada. The site also has an information page about dialectical behavior therapy

Disclaimer: 

Links to other sites are provided for information purposes only and do not constitute endorsements. 

Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health disorder.

This blog and podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this program is intended to be a substitute for professional psychological, psychiatric or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.