Our therapists offer DBT / dialectical behavior therapy in Philadelphia, PA

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a type of talk therapy (psychotherapy) adapted for people who experience emotions very intensely. “Dialectical” means combining opposite ideas. DBT focuses on helping people accept the reality of their lives and their behaviors, as well as helping them learn to change their lives, including their unhelpful behaviors.

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) strives to strike a balance between validation (acceptance) of who you are and your challenges and the benefits of change. In sessions, you will learn new skills to improve emotion regulation.

Signs of positive progress in DBT:

• Decreased emotional outbursts
• Improved ability to manage strong emotions
• Greater understanding of one's emotional triggers

Four types of DBT are implemented, but they vary from therapist to therapist:

• DBT pre-assessment.
• Individual therapy.
• Skills training in groups.
• Telephone crisis coaching.

• Mindfulness: This is the practice of being fully aware and focused on the present instead of worrying about the past or future.
• Distress tolerance: This involves understanding and managing your emotions in difficult or stressful situations without responding with harmful behaviors.
• Interpersonal effectiveness: This means understanding how to ask for what you want and need and setting boundaries while maintaining respect for yourself and others.
• Emotion regulation: This means understanding, being more aware of, and having more control over your emotions.

Here are some ways to prepare that may even be covered when starting DBT sessions: discussing the importance of regular attendance, active participation, and commitment to practicing skills outside therapy sessions.