DBT

Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Conditions like personality disorders and bipolar depression are notoriously difficult to address with traditional talk therapy techniques. In the late 1970s, a therapist, Marsha M. Lineham, started developing dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) as part of her work with women who had a history of self-harm and suicidal ideation. She found that many of these women didn’t achieve symptom alleviation with the newly developed cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other traditional forms of talk therapy, and she wanted to develop an approach that would benefit them. Like any form of talk therapy, DBT is not the best option for everyone, so you can learn more about this approach to therapy by reading below or chatting with me during an initial consultation.

What Is DBT?

DBT is a form of talk therapy that was developed out of CBT, a talk therapy approach that involves learning skills to change negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. DBT builds off this basic therapy structure, creating a form of talk therapy that is focused on embracing the self and accepting reality while supporting them to change damaging or unhelpful thoughts, feelings, and actions. DBT helps people find healthier ways of responding to or managing intense emotions.

Who Can Benefit from Dialectical Behavior Therapy?

Because this form of talk therapy has proven especially beneficial to improve emotional regulation, it’s often used to treat the effects of mood and personality disorders, including:

  • Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Bipolar depression
  • Severe anxiety disorders
  • Self-harm or mutilation
  • Suicidal ideation
  • Substance use disorders
  • Eating disorders
  • Gambling addictions

What Happens During DBT Therapy?

Throughout DBT therapy sessions, you’ll work with a therapist to learn beneficial emotional regulation skills. That starts with an assessment visit. During the assessment session or sessions, I’ll ask a number of questions, and I may ask you to fill out rating skills to help me understand your current experience with emotional dysregulation. After the assessment visit, you’ll set goals for your DBT sessions. From there, we’ll work together during individual therapy appointments, group skills training sessions, and/or telephone crisis counseling to learn emotional regulation skills and apply them during your daily life.

DBT emotional regulation skills focus on:

  • Mindfulness – learning to remain focused and aware of the present moment rather than worrying over past or future events.
  • Distress tolerance – learning healthy ways of responding during distressing situations and minimizing harmful responses.
  • Interpersonal effectiveness – being able to set boundaries in relationships and maintain space for your own needs as well as learning to ask for help and rely on others.

Emotion regulation – increased awareness and healthy management of emotions.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re experiencing treatment-resistant symptoms of personality disorder, depression, PTSD, suicidal ideation, and other conditions, DBT may be an effective approach to help you reclaim your sense of stability and control. If you’re ready to get started or learn more, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at CR Mental Health via phone call or text message at 725-252-8317 or using the information request form on the Contact Us Page. Your first visit will be an introductory consultation to let us get to know each other better before moving forward with therapy sessions. From there, we’ll schedule additional sessions as needed at the end of current therapy sessions or via text, phone, or email.

I’m ready

The Benefits of Telehealth

Long gone are the days of commuting to a therapist’s office, waiting in line, and collapsing on an old couch to get the help you need. In today’s modern world, telehealth provides healing without hassle.

No Travel Required

Telehealth allows you to see Michele without having to leave the comfort of your own home. You can conduct therapy with your mobile phone, tablet, or computer! Indulge in simplicity and save money on gas, parking, or public transportation.

No Need to Leave Work

As long as you have a safe and confidential space available to you, there’s no need to leave work and battle traffic to enjoy your session with Michele. You can simply schedule your appointment at a convenient time during lunch, before or after work, or on a break.

No Elder or Child Care

Some clients have the responsibility of caring for children or older adults. Arranging care can be challenging and expensive. Telehealth resolves that additional stress and allows you to conduct your session at home. However, don’t forget to set a safe and confidential space for yourself!

No Waiting

Telehealth prioritizes and values your time. Your session with Michele will never require wasted minutes in a waiting room. While you anticipate your scheduled appointment, you can keep working at home or in your office and hop on when you’re ready.

Improved Quality of Care

With these various benefits, telehealth provides easier access to mental health services and increases your likelihood of sticking to your treatment plan. It eliminates those everyday challenges and roadblocks that tend to stop us from accessing care.
284 E Lake Mead Pkwy, Ste C PMB 147
Henderson, NV 89015
4806 E Camp Lowell Dr Tucson AZ 85712
725-252-8317

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