Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) - Westchester, NY

DBT is based on the belief that every person has an innate capacity to create a life worth living, and this can be achieved through developing their skills in day-to-day interactions and pursuits. DBT is a form of talking therapy for people who suffer with extreme emotional pain. Often coming from emotional dysregulation and an intolerance to distress, this form of therapy is designed for a range of conditions. Some of these include:

• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Eating disorders e.g. binge eating; bulimia
• Substance use disorder
• Self-harm
• Suicidal behavior

DBT was originally developed for borderline personality disorder, but further research has shown that it can be used in other areas. 

For those with debilitating emotional reactivity, causing disruption to daily life, DBT may be the appropriate treatment. Having the ability to regulate one’s emotions is a vital skill. It prevents frequent crises and allows the individual to function healthily in day-to-day life. With regulation of emotions, it aids in well-being. 

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How Does DBT Work? 

The meaning of a dialectic is an integration of opposites, or a synthesis. And in DBT, the key dialectic is finding a balance between acceptance and change. Many people seek therapy when they feel stuck in unhealthy cycles and thought patterns. Dialectical Behavior Therapy is used to instill four key skills that help an individual to change their perspective and effectively unroot themselves from negative ways of thinking:

• Emotional Regulation

This skill teaches an individual how to change emotions that cause trouble or detriment to their mental state.

• Mindfulness

This is the skill of being fully present in the moment, without judgment.

• Distress tolerance

This involves managing pain in difficult or turbulent circumstances, in which the outcome cannot be changed. 

• Interpersonal Effectiveness

This teaches an individual to ask for what they want, as well as having the ability to say no while maintaining their composure, without fear of impacting their relationships.  

Westchester Therapy works with a diverse range of therapists with intensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy.  If you are unsure about which therapy route to take, we have created a simple quiz. It takes five minutes to complete, and your responses will allow us to match you with the best therapist for your particular needs.  

DBT is more likely to work for you if you feel you are able to do the following:

• You feel ready to focus more on the present and future instead of the past
• You have the capacity for group sessions, in some cases
• You are able to complete homework between sessions to further your progress

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What is the Process of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?

The main purpose of using dialectical behavior therapy is to strike a balance between acceptance of the person you are and the challenges you face, versus the benefits of change. With the help of a qualified DBT therapist, you will develop new skills that will help you to improve your emotional regulation.

There are four main types of sessions:

• DBT pre-assessment

Your therapist will typically offer an assessment prior to starting DBT sessions. This is used to determine if DBT is appropriate for your needs and circumstances. During this session, DBT will be explained to you, and you will be asked a series of questions to ensure this form of therapy is suitable for you.

If DBT is found to be the appropriate therapy for you, a treatment plan will be created, and the length of treatment will be explained to you.

• Individual therapy

This typically involves weekly sessions with your counselor, with each session ranging from 40-60 minutes. During these sessions, you will develop new skills to replace unhealthy behaviors and ways of thinking.

You may also be asked to use a diary to keep a log of your emotional reactions and to identify patterns in behavior. This diary will be used during your sessions so your therapist can decide what needs to be focused on during each session.

• Skills training in group sessions

Commonly mistaken with group therapy, this form of therapy is used to teach skills in a group setting. It is similar to a teaching and learning environment in a classroom setting. 

• Telephone crisis coaching

Often, DBT involves telephone crisis coaching. This is useful in everyday life, offering a lifeline between sessions. If you are in immediate crisis, such as wanting to self-harm, you can call your therapist for support. Alternatively, when you are attempting to use newly learned DBT skills but need advice, telephone crisis coaching can be used. 

Clear boundaries will be set for when you can call your therapist – you will be given a specific timeframe. 

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Take Our Quiz

For DBT therapy, Westchester Therapy wants to make sure that you’re matched with the best therapist for your needs. We have created a simple quiz that takes less than five minutes to complete. We will use your answers to understand who you are and what you’re looking for so we can match you with a top-ranked therapist. Click here to take the quiz.