Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a therapeutic approach that was originally developed by psychologist Dr. Marsha M. Linehan in the late 1970s. It was originally designed to treat individuals with suicidal tendencies, but DBT has since been adapted and proven effective for a range of mental health conditions.

DBT is a type of talking therapy that is particularly beneficial for people who feel emotions very intensely. It combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with elements of mindfulness, acceptance, and dialectics—the idea that life is complex and that two things that seem opposite can both be true. The therapy is structured around four key areas:

Mindfulness: Emphasizes being present in the moment without judgment, helping individuals develop awareness of their thoughts and feelings.

Distress Tolerance: Teaches coping skills for managing crises and overwhelming emotions without resorting to harmful behaviors.

Emotion Regulation: Focuses on understanding and managing intense emotions, promoting healthier ways of coping with emotional distress.

Interpersonal Effectiveness: Provides skills to navigate and improve relationships, communication, and assertiveness, fostering more positive interactions with others.

The goal of DBT is to help understand and accept difficult feelings, and develop the skills to manage them, in order to make positive changes.

DBT acknowledges the dialectical tension between acceptance and change, recognizing the importance of validating an individual’s experiences while simultaneously encouraging personal growth and behavioral modifications. This holistic approach makes DBT suitable for those struggling with emotional dysregulation, self-harm tendencies, and difficulties in interpersonal relationships. It has been widely adopted in various mental health settings, including individual therapy, group therapy, and skills training programs.