Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based, rigidly structured psychotherapeutic intervention. It was developed by Psychologist Marsha M. Linehan in the late 1980s as a means to more effectively treat individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD), suffering from chronic suicidal ideation. DBT combines techniques from western cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psycho-educational modules, and eastern mindfulness-based practices to foster the systematic learning of new emotional coping skills. It is carried out in three therapeutic settings, including weekly individual psychotherapy (one-on-one therapy) sessions; weekly DBT skills training group therapy sessions, and access to twenty-four-hour support between sessions via phone coaching. Dialectical behavior therapy focuses on teaching skills in four primary areas, also known as the four modules of DBT. Each module highlights distinct and specific skills that build upon each other and are individually and collectively integral to the success of DBT.
The four modules of DBT are: core mindfulness (focusing skills), emotion regulation (de-escalation skills), distress tolerance (crisis survival skills), and interpersonal effectiveness (social/ relationship skills), and are generally taught in sequential order. Hence, the first main skills area of focus in DBT is core mindfulness. The core mindfulness module is entirely dedicated to cultivating mindfulness. The Oxford English Dictionary defines mindfulness as “a mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations.” Skills during this module help individuals learn to focus on acknowledging and experiencing emotions without reacting impulsively and/ or destructively. It teaches skills to help individuals avoid taking things personally, gain a better understanding of their emotions, become active listeners, and learn to sit with emotions instead of attempting to ignore, expel, or dismiss them. Honing and actively integrating the skills from the DBT core mindfulness module can increase one’s ability to regulate emotions, which can help an individual prevent, reduce, manage, and even become more resilient towards unwanted feelings. Core mindfulness skills are the foundation for the remaining DBT modules.
Treatment In Calabasas
Calabasas is a city in California. It is a well-known suburb of Los Angeles, located west of the San Fernando Valley and north of the Santa Monica Mountains. Over the past decade, the city of Calabasas has grown in its reputation for luxury as well as for privacy which makes it a hidden gem for residential living for society’s elite, and one of the most desirable destinations in Los Angeles County. It is also home to a plethora of highly qualified mental health clinicians providing an array of therapeutic services and treatment options.
The information above is provided for the use of informational purposes only. The above content is not to be substituted for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment, as in no way is it intended as an attempt to practice medicine, give specific medical advice, including, without limitation, advice concerning the topic of mental health. As such, please do not use any material provided above to disregard professional advice or delay seeking treatment.
