How Do DBT Sessions Work?
DBT is typically delivered in a structured format, often in a group setting, although individual therapy sessions are common.
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Many people can become overwhelmed by their emotions. They may engage in harmful behaviour, strain their interpersonal relationships, or be unable to control their feelings.
At Kembali, we understand how overwhelming some emotions and situations can be. Everyone’s feelings are valid, but that doesn’t mean they should have an outsized impact on a person’s life.
DBT Treatment at Kembali
Getting DBT therapy can be incredibly helpful for people facing challenges related to emotional regulation, interpersonal difficulties, and unhealthy coping mechanisms such as substance use. At Kembali, DBT provides a roadmap for patients to develop the skills to navigate life’s challenges effectively and create a more fulfilling and balanced life.
Individual Treatment
During individual therapy sessions, the therapist and the patient will collaborate to work on specific goals related to the core skills outlined above. The therapist will also help the patient identify problematic thoughts, emotions, and behaviours and teach practical strategies and skills to address these difficulties.
Group Skills Training
Group skills training is a key component of DBT. Weekly sessions typically last 90 minutes to 2 hours. A trained DBT therapist leads small groups of 6 to 10 patients. These group sessions are primarily concerned with teaching and practising core DBT skills.
Phone Coaching
DBT may also involve phone coaching between sessions to provide patients additional support and guidance when they face distressing situations or crises. Patients can contact their DBT therapist over the phone for brief coaching sessions.
What is Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)?
DBT combines elements of cognitive therapy, which focuses on changing unhelpful thought patterns and beliefs, with behavioural therapy, which emphasises changing harmful behaviours.
One of DBT’s core concepts is dialectics, which involves balancing and reconciling opposing perspectives or truths. This encourages individuals to accept themselves and their experiences while working towards change and growth.
History of DBT
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is an offshoot of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) developed by psychologist Dr. Marsha Linehan in the late 1980s. It was originally designed to treat borderline personality disorder (BPD) but has since been proven to be a flexible form of treatment and has been adapted to treat many mental health conditions beyond being a treatment for borderline personality disorder.
Possible Limitations of DBT
While an effective treatment, it’s important to remember that DBT requires consistent participation. It’s a time-intensive treatment that requires you to commit time and effort to get its benefits.
DBT may also not be suitable for everyone since those with severe psychotic disorders or cognitive impairments may require more specialised treatment. Extensive trauma and more severe disorders will need long-term, integrative treatment beyond DBT.
How to Find a DBT Therapist
When finding a DBT therapist, try to look at different websites that list therapists near your area. Recommendations from your GP and loved ones are also a great start. If you’re concerned with costs, check with your insurance provider to see if DBT is covered under your plan. They may have some recommendations.
What Are the Core Skills That DBT Works On?
The DBT skills that this form of therapy seeks to develop in individuals are essential to effectively manage emotions, improve relationships, and navigate challenging situations. These ‘modalities’ or new skills can be grouped into four main areas:
What Conditions Can Be Treated With DBT?
While dialectical behaviour therapy was originally used as a therapy for borderline personality disorder, this type of therapy has proven to be effective at managing the symptoms of many mental health problems. The range of mental health conditions that DBT could be a good intervention for include:
Depression
DBT may be beneficial for individuals experiencing depression, especially when difficulties in emotion regulation, interpersonal conflicts, and negative self-perception accompany it. DBT skills can help individuals manage their symptoms, reduce self-harming behaviour, and improve overall well-being for people with depressive disorders.
Anxiety
Mental health professionals can also use DBT to address anxiety disorders. DBT skills such as mindfulness and distress tolerance skills can help manage symptoms of anxiety disorders, including generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and phobias.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Mental health professionals can integrate DBT into the treatment plan of people with PTSD to help them manage trauma-related symptoms, regulate emotions, manage triggers, and improve relationships affected by their condition.
Substance Use Disorder (SUD)
DBT can help treat drug and alcohol addiction as the skills it teaches can be incorporated into substance abuse treatment to help individuals manage cravings, cope with triggers and stressors, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and prevent them from relapsing.
Self-harm and Suicidal Ideation
By teaching individuals healthy ways to cope with distress, regulate emotions, and improve problem-solving skills, DBT has the potential to be effective in reducing self-harming behaviours and suicidal ideation.
Bipolar Disorder
Individuals with Bipolar Disorder may find that DBT can be beneficial for managing mood swings, enhancing emotion regulation, and reducing impulsive behaviours during both manic and depressive episodes.
Chronic Pain or Illness
Skills taught throughout DBT treatment, such as mindfulness and distress tolerance skills, can help individuals with chronic pain or illness manage their symptoms, improve coping strategies, and enhance overall quality of life.
Why Get DBT Treatment
DBT helps individuals manage intense emotions, reducing emotional outbursts and instability. Here are some reasons why DBT treatment can be a good approach for your situation.
Find Your Healing Today
There are times when emotions can get the better of people and negatively impact other aspects of a person’s life. No one should have to worry about their own feelings hurting them. Contact us at Kembali, and we’ll help begin your recovery. Our team is here for you every step of the way.