Our Methods

Dialectical Behavior Therapy

DBT has been shown to be effective in reducing suicidal thoughts and behaviors, leading to fewer hospitalizations and emergency room visits. By teaching communication and assertiveness skills, DBT helps individuals build healthier and more satisfying relationships.

More than 90% of clients see improvements in their most severe mental health symptoms.

Overview

What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of psychotherapy that has been proven to be effective in helping people manage intense emotions, reduce self-destructive behaviors, and improve relationships. Originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT has since been successfully applied to a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and substance use disorders.

At its core, DBT is about finding balance – the “dialectic” – between acceptance and change. It teaches you to accept your emotions and experiences as they are, while also learning skills to change unhealthy patterns of thinking and behavior. DBT is not about being “perfect” or getting rid of all your emotions; it’s about learning to live a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling, even when faced with challenges.

Types of DBT

DBT comes in several forms, each tailored to address specific needs and challenges:

Comprehensive Approach

Standard DBT

This comprehensive approach is often considered the gold standard for DBT. It combines individual therapy, group skills training, phone coaching, and a consultation team for therapists. Standard DBT is ideal for individuals experiencing severe emotional dysregulation, self-harming behaviors, or suicidal thoughts. It provides a holistic and intensive treatment plan.

Teen Focused

DBT for Adolescents

Recognizing the unique developmental needs of teenagers, this adaptation of DBT focuses on teaching skills to manage intense emotions, navigate complex relationships, and make healthy choices. It is particularly effective for adolescents struggling with mood swings, impulsivity, or self-harm.

Skill Development

DBT Skills Training

This group-based approach focuses solely on teaching the four core DBT skills: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. It is a good fit for individuals who are looking to enhance their coping mechanisms, improve relationships, or build resilience. This format can also be beneficial as a follow-up to standard DBT to reinforce learned skills.

At Altura Mental Health, we tailor our DBT programs to meet the specific needs of each client. Our experienced therapists will work collaboratively with you to determine the most appropriate form of DBT to empower you on your journey towards emotional well-being.

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Therapeutic Benefits

What Conditions Can DBT Help With?

While the list is not exhaustive, it highlights the versatility of DBT as a therapeutic approach. If you are struggling with any of these conditions or other emotional difficulties, DBT may be a helpful tool for you.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including:

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

DBT was initially developed for BPD and remains the gold-standard treatment for this condition. It helps individuals manage intense emotions, reduce self-harm, and improve relationships.

Depression

DBT teaches skills for coping with negative emotions, improving self-esteem, and building healthier relationships, all of which can be helpful in managing depression.

Anxiety Disorders

DBT skills for mindfulness, distress tolerance, and emotional regulation can be particularly effective in reducing anxiety symptoms.

Substance Use Disorders

DBT skills for managing cravings, coping with triggers, and building healthier relationships can support individuals in recovery from addiction.

Post-Traumatic StressDisorders (PTSD)

DBT can help individuals with PTSD manage flashbacks, nightmares, and emotional reactivity.

Other Mood Disorders

DBT has also shown promise in treating bipolar disorder, chronic suicidality, and other mood disorders.

Benefits

Key Benefits of DBT

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) offers a path to emotional well-being and a life worth living. At Altura Mental Health, we understand the unique challenges faced by adolescents, teens, young adults, and adults in all stages of life. DBT equips you with practical skills and strategies to navigate these challenges, fostering resilience and creating lasting positive change.

Teens and Young Adults

Develop effective strategies to manage the intense emotions and mood swings often experienced during adolescence.
Navigate peer pressure, relationship difficulties, and the complexities of growing up with confidence and self-assurance.
Replace self-harming behaviors with healthy coping mechanisms that promote emotional well-being.

Adults

Find relief from the overwhelming stress and anxiety that can accompany work, family life, and personal responsibilities.
Build stronger, more satisfying relationships by improving communication, assertiveness, and conflict resolution skills.
Develop mindfulness practices to cultivate inner peace, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.
Navigate major life transitions, such as career changes, divorce, or empty nest syndrome, with greater resilience and grace.

Other Adults

Cope with the challenges of aging, including health concerns, loss, and social isolation, with greater resilience and acceptance.
Cultivate mindfulness to find peace and contentment in the present moment.
Build and maintain meaningful relationships with loved ones and within the community.

Regardless of your age or stage of life, DBT can empower you to create a life that is rich in meaning, joy, and fulfillment. At Altura Mental Health, we are committed to providing personalized DBT that addresses your unique needs and goals.

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How Does DBT Work ?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a comprehensive approach that blends acceptance and change. This “dialectical” philosophy recognizes the importance of validating your emotions and experiences while also empowering you to make positive changes in your life. It’s about finding a balance between accepting things as they are and actively working towards a better future.

In DBT, you’ll learn and practice four core skills:

Mindfulness

Cultivating present-moment awareness of your thoughts, emotions, and surroundings without judgment. This skill helps you ground yourself in the present and make conscious choices rather than reacting impulsively.
Emotion Regulation

Identifying and understanding your emotions, and developing strategies to manage them effectively. This involves learning to decrease emotional vulnerability and increase positive emotions.

Distress Tolerance

Developing healthy ways to cope with intense emotions and stressful situations. This involves learning to tolerate discomfort and ride out emotional storms without resorting to self-destructive behaviors.
Interpersonal Effectiveness

Building communication skills to navigate relationships, assert your needs, and set healthy boundaries. This skill helps you maintain relationships while respecting your own needs and values.

DBT utilizes a multi-faceted approach to help you integrate these skills into your daily life:

Individual Therapy

In weekly one-on-one sessions with a trained DBT therapist, you'll delve into your specific challenges, learn and practice DBT skills, and develop personalized strategies to manage your emotions and relationships.

Group Skills Training

Typically held weekly, these sessions provide a supportive environment for you to learn and practice DBT skills alongside others. The group format encourages shared learning, support, and accountability.

Phone Coaching

Your therapist is available for phone coaching between sessions to offer support and guidance when you're facing a crisis or intense emotion. This allows you to apply DBT skills in real-time, reinforcing what you've learned.

Contrary to some misconceptions, DBT does not encourage or condone unhealthy behaviors.

It empowers you to take control of your emotions and make positive choices. DBT is not exclusive to individuals with borderline personality disorder; it is effective for a wide range of mental health challenges.

At Altura Mental Health, our compassionate and highly skilled DBT therapists are dedicated to guiding you on this transformative journey. We tailor our approach to your unique needs, ensuring you receive the support and resources necessary to thrive.

How Long Does DBT Take to Work?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a journey of self-discovery and healing, and every individual’s path unfolds at its own pace. The time it takes to experience positive changes with DBT can vary depending on various factors, including the specific type of DBT you’re engaged in, the intensity of your challenges, and your personal commitment to the process.

Standard DBT

This comprehensive approach typically lasts about a year, with weekly individual therapy and skills training sessions.

DBT Skills Training

This group-based approach usually runs for 24 weeks, with weekly sessions focused on learning and practicing the core DBT skills.

Remember, progress isn’t always linear. There may be times when you feel stuck or experience setbacks. This is a normal part of the process. At Altura Mental Health, we offer ongoing support and encouragement throughout your DBT journey, regardless of how long it takes for you to achieve your goals. Our therapists are committed to helping you navigate challenges, celebrate successes, and create lasting positive change in your life.

While the full benefits of DBT may take time to unfold, many individuals begin to notice positive shifts early on in therapy. These early signs of progress might include:

Improved emotional awareness and regulation

You may find it easier to identify and manage your emotions, reducing impulsivity and reactivity.
Increased mindfulness

You may experience greater present-moment awareness and acceptance, leading to a calmer and more centered state of mind.
Enhanced coping skills

You may develop new ways to cope with stress and difficult emotions, replacing unhealthy patterns with more constructive behaviors.
Strengthened relationships

You may notice improvements in your communication, assertiveness, and ability to navigate conflict, leading to healthier and more satisfying relationships.

We understand that embarking on a therapeutic journey can feel daunting. But rest assured, you are not alone. Our compassionate and experienced team is here to provide you with the guidance, support, and resources you need to thrive. With DBT, you have the power to transform your life and create a brighter future.

Is DBT Effective ?

The resounding answer is yes. Extensive research consistently demonstrates the effectiveness of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) across a wide range of mental health challenges. It has been proven to be particularly effective for individuals struggling with:

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

DBT is considered the gold-standard treatment for BPD, significantly reducing self-harming behaviors, suicidal ideation, and hospitalizations.

Eating Disorders

DBT has been shown to be effective in reducing binge eating, purging behaviors, and other symptoms associated with eating disorders.

Depression and Anxiety

DBT equips individuals with skills to manage intense emotions, reduce negative thinking patterns, and cope with stress, leading to significant improvements in mood and overall well-being.

Substance Use Disorders

DBT helps individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms for managing cravings and triggers, increasing the likelihood of sustained recovery.

At Altura Mental Health, we are committed to providing evidence-based DBT delivered by compassionate and skilled therapists. Our personalized approach ensures that you receive the most effective and supportive care possible. If you’re ready to take the next step towards lasting change and emotional well-being, we encourage you to reach out and explore how DBT can benefit you.

Get Answers

FAQs for DBT

What is the difference between DBT and other types of therapy?

While other therapies might focus on exploring past experiences or changing thoughts, DBT is unique in its emphasis on balancing acceptance and change. It equips you with practical skills to manage emotions, tolerate distress, and navigate relationships effectively. We combine individual therapy, group skills training, and phone coaching to provide comprehensive support.

Is DBT only for people with borderline personality disorder?

Absolutely not! While DBT was initially developed for borderline personality disorder, its effectiveness extends to a wide range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, substance use disorders, and PTSD.

How long does a typical DBT program last?

The duration of a DBT program varies depending on individual needs and the specific type of DBT you choose.

Standard DBT

Typically lasts about a year, with weekly individual therapy and group skills training sessions.
DBT Skills Training

This group-based approach usually runs for 24 weeks, with weekly sessions focused on learning and practicing the core DBT skills.
Virtual IOP

This program is tailored to your individual needs and typically lasts 12 weeks with 3-hour sessions, 3 days a week.

Is DBT covered by insurance?

Many insurance plans cover DBT, but coverage can vary. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to confirm coverage for DBT services at Altura Mental Health. We are in-network with most major insurance providers and are happy to assist you with this process.

What are the qualifications of Altura Mental Health's DBT therapists?

Our DBT therapists are highly trained and experienced clinicians who have received specialized training in DBT. They are committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care and are passionate about helping individuals achieve their mental health goals. Many of our therapists have personal and professional experiences that contribute to their deep understanding of the challenges you face.

What is the typical group size for DBT skills training?

Our DBT skills training groups are intentionally kept small to foster a safe, supportive, and interactive environment. Group sizes typically range from 6 to 10 participants, ensuring you receive individualized attention and have ample opportunities to practice skills with others.

Does Altura Mental Health's DBT program incorporate any additional modalities, like art therapy or mindfulness exercises?

Yes, we often incorporate mindfulness exercises into our DBT sessions to enhance emotional regulation and stress reduction. We may also integrate other modalities, such as art therapy or movement therapy, based on individual needs and preferences. We believe in a holistic approach that addresses the mind, body, and spirit.

What makes Altura Mental Health's DBT program unique?

At Altura Mental Health, we pride ourselves on providing personalized, compassionate care that is tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals. We offer a warm and welcoming environment where you can feel safe to explore your emotions and develop the skills you need to thrive. Our program is deeply rooted in evidence-based practices, ensuring you receive the most effective and up-to-date care available.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy

What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?

Types of DBT

Standard DBT

DBT for Adolescents

DBT Skills Training

Use Your Insurance

What Conditions Can DBT Help With?

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

Depression

Anxiety Disorders

Substance Use Disorders

Post-Traumatic StressDisorders (PTSD)

Other Mood Disorders

Key Benefits of DBT

Teens and Young Adults

Adults

Other Adults

Building Your Self Confidence

Occupational Therapy Evaluations

Five Benefits of Group Therapy

How Does DBT Work ?

How Long Does DBT Take to Work?

Is DBT Effective ?

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

Eating Disorders

Depression and Anxiety

Substance Use Disorders

FAQs for DBT

What is the difference between DBT and other types of therapy?

Is DBT only for people with borderline personality disorder?

How long does a typical DBT program last?

Is DBT covered by insurance?

What are the qualifications of Altura Mental Health's DBT therapists?

What is the typical group size for DBT skills training?

Does Altura Mental Health's DBT program incorporate any additional modalities, like art therapy or mindfulness exercises?

What makes Altura Mental Health's DBT program unique?

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