Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
“Radical acceptance rests on letting go of the illusion of control and a willingness to notice and accept things as they are right now, without judging.”
– Marsha M. Linehan
What is Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)?
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that was originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder. However, research has shown that DBT can be effective in treating a wide range of other conditions as well, including eating disorders, substance abuse, depression, and anxiety.
How it works:
The core principle of DBT is that it is better to accept both the positive and negative aspects of our lives rather than trying to deny or change them. This acceptance is balanced with a commitment to change, which leads to the dialectical approach of the Therapy. In other words, DBT seeks to find a balance between accepting things as they are and working to change them. As a result, DBT can help people to develop greater acceptance of themselves and their lives, while also providing the tools and motivation needed to make positive changes.
Skills taught in DBT include:
The Four Components of DBT
Mindfulness: Central to DBT, mindfulness involves staying present in the moment and observing thoughts and feelings without judgment. This practice helps individuals gain awareness of their emotional states and reduces impulsive reactions.
Distress Tolerance: This component teaches skills to tolerate and survive crises without resorting to self-destructive behaviors. Techniques include self-soothing, distraction, and improving the moment, enabling individuals to endure distressing situations more effectively.
Emotion Regulation: DBT provides tools to understand and manage intense emotions. By identifying and labeling emotions, individuals can develop strategies to reduce their emotional vulnerability and increase positive experiences.
Interpersonal Effectiveness: This aspect focuses on improving relationships through assertiveness and effective communication. Skills such as setting boundaries, asking for what one needs, and handling conflicts are emphasized to foster healthier connections with others.
To request a 15-minute complimentary consultation with one of our therapists, please email info@lotustherapy.ca. You can book your first session here:
The DBT Therapeutic Process
DBT therapy typically involves individual therapy sessions, group skills training, and phone coaching. Individual therapy focuses on addressing personal challenges and reinforcing the skills learned in group sessions. Group skills training, on the other hand, provides a supportive environment to practice and refine DBT skills. Phone coaching offers real-time assistance, helping individuals apply DBT techniques in everyday situations.
Benefits of DBT Therapy
Reduced Self-Harm and Suicidal Behaviors: DBT has been shown to significantly decrease self-harming behaviors and suicidal ideation in individuals with BPD and other mental health conditions.
Improved Emotional Regulation: By learning to manage intense emotions, individuals experience greater stability and reduced emotional turmoil.
Enhanced Relationships: DBT skills promote healthier interactions, leading to stronger and more fulfilling relationships.
Greater Resilience: The distress tolerance skills taught in DBT empower individuals to navigate life’s challenges with increased resilience and confidence.
Overall Mental Health Improvement: DBT’s holistic approach addresses various aspects of mental health, leading to comprehensive and long-lasting improvements in well-being.
Lotus Therapy & Counselling Centre's Approach
Our Registered Clinical Counsellors & Therapists in Vancouver & Coquitlam
We take great care in selecting the therapists we hire and only bring on those who embody our values of compassion, curiosity, and openness. We believe that these qualities are essential to creating an environment where our clients can feel safe and supported as they navigate their mental health journey.
Or view our list of counsellors accepting clients
Why Choose Lotus Therapy?
Lotus Therapy & Counselling Centre provides compassionate, trauma-informed care through holistic, evidence-based practices in an inclusive environment, offering flexible scheduling and low-cost options to ensure accessible, quality mental health support.
Compassionate Care in a Safe Space
At Lotus Therapy & Counselling Centre, our highly skilled clinicians provide a safe, inclusive space where compassion and connection foster profound healing and personal growth.
Holistic, Trauma-Informed Approach
We utilize a holistic, trauma-informed approach, integrating mind, body, and nervous system techniques to address core issues and unlock your potential.
Flexible and Accessible Quality Service
Committed to accessible care, we offer flexible appointments, including evenings and weekends, and low-cost options without compromising our evidence-based, quality service.
References: https://psychcentral.com/lib/an-overview-of-dialectical-behavior-therapy#What-is-DBT?
“Emotions are not good, bad, right, or wrong. The first step to changing our relationship to feelings is to be curious about them and the messages they send to us.”