Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) at Portland Treatment Center
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a transformative type of psychotherapy rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). It is uniquely designed to support individuals experiencing intense emotional challenges. At Portland Treatment Center, our skilled therapists utilize DBT to help clients find emotional balance, improve their relationships, and create lasting positive change in their lives.
What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy, developed by psychologist Marsha Linehan in the 1970s, blends acceptance and change strategies to address extreme emotional distress. The term “dialectical” refers to the practice of integrating seemingly opposite strategies—accepting one’s current emotional experiences while simultaneously working towards meaningful change.
Who Benefits from DBT?
DBT is highly effective for managing a variety of mental health conditions, particularly those involving emotional dysregulation. Conditions that respond well to DBT include:
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
Anxiety and Depression
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Eating Disorders (Binge Eating Disorder, Bulimia)
Substance Use Disorders
Self-Harm and Suicidal Behaviors
DBT is beneficial for anyone who wants to learn practical skills for managing intense emotions and improving their overall emotional resilience.
How DBT Works
At Portland Treatment Center, DBT treatment typically includes four main components:
1. DBT Pre-Assessment
Before beginning DBT, you’ll participate in a pre-assessment to ensure this therapy aligns with your needs. This involves discussing your history, challenges, and therapeutic goals, and outlining the DBT process.
2. Individual DBT Therapy
Individual therapy sessions, usually held weekly for 40–60 minutes, provide personalized support to:
Address and reduce harmful behaviors like self-injury or substance abuse.
Resolve barriers to your progress, such as relationship issues or emotional difficulties.
Develop and practice healthier coping strategies.
Clients often keep diaries to track emotional patterns and responses, enhancing self-awareness and guiding therapeutic interventions.
3. DBT Skills Training Groups
Skills training takes place in structured group sessions, distinct from traditional group therapy. These classes focus on teaching four core DBT skills:
Mindfulness: Developing awareness and presence in the moment.
Distress Tolerance: Managing emotions during stressful situations without harmful behaviors.
Emotion Regulation: Identifying, understanding, and effectively managing intense emotions.
Interpersonal Effectiveness: Communicating clearly, setting healthy boundaries, and improving relationships.
These sessions function much like educational workshops, providing practical tools and strategies.
4. Telephone Crisis Coaching
Clients receive additional support through telephone crisis coaching. This allows immediate access to therapists for guidance during crises, such as managing urges for self-harm or using DBT skills effectively in real-time scenarios.
Benefits of DBT Therapy
Research consistently shows DBT therapy results in significant improvements, including:
Reduced self-harm and suicidal behaviors
Lowered substance misuse
Decreased hospitalizations
Enhanced ability to manage depression, anxiety, and anger
Improved quality of life and emotional stability
Is DBT Right for You?
DBT may be particularly effective if you:
Are committed to personal growth and ready for active participation in therapy.
Are willing to complete homework assignments to practice new skills.
Prefer focusing primarily on your present and future rather than revisiting past experiences extensively.
Can participate comfortably in structured group settings.
Duration of DBT Treatment
Typically, DBT therapy lasts at least six months to a year, though treatment length varies based on individual needs and goals. Longer treatment may be recommended, especially for those managing chronic or complex emotional challenges.
At Portland Treatment Center, our DBT therapists are committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to empower you toward meaningful, lasting emotional health.
If you’re interested in DBT or want more information, contact us today to start your journey toward emotional balance and resilience.