Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based form of counseling originally developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan in the 1980s to support individuals with intense emotional experiences, particularly those with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Infused with mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, DBT has since proven effective for a range of mental health issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, and addiction verywellmind.com.
What Makes DBT Unique?
- Dialectical Philosophy: DBT integrates two opposing components—acceptance and change—allowing clients to validate their experiences while working toward growth verywellmind.com.
- Comprehensive Format: Therapy typically includes individual sessions, group skills training, and phone coaching—providing a robust support structure.
- Structured Skill Modules:
- Mindfulness – Cultivates present-moment awareness and non-judgmental presence.
- Distress Tolerance – Develops skills for coping with crises without impulsive reactions.
- Emotion Regulation – Teaches clients how to identify, understand, and manage intense emotions.
- Interpersonal Effectiveness – Strengthens relationship skills through assertiveness, boundary setting, and self-respect verywellmind.com.
Who Benefits from DBT?
DBT was first created for individuals with suicidal behaviors and self-harm tendencies related to BPD—but has since expanded to support those experiencing:
- Severe emotion dysregulation, trauma, relationship issues
- Depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use, eating disorders
- Chronic stress, recurring crises, and poor coping skills
Research demonstrates reductions in depression, self-harm, and emotional volatility following DBT participation.
Why It Works
- Dual Validation and Change: Clients feel heard and accepted, which is essential for change-focused work.
- Skill-Based Learning: Clients leave each session with practical tools to apply when challenges arise.
- Empowerment Through Coaching: Phone coaching ensures real-time support in difficult situations.
A study of older adults with treatment-resistant depression found that adding DBT to antidepressants significantly improved remission rates verywellmind.com.
Integrating DBT into Therapy at Linanna Therapy
At Linanna Therapy, we offer affordable therapy in Coquitlam and online across British Columbia. Our DBT-informed approach includes:
- Structured individual counseling plus optional group DBT skills sessions
- Mindfulness practices to build emotional awareness
- Tools for distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and relationship effectiveness
- Tailored supports for depression, trauma, self-harm, and chronic emotional overwhelm
Our therapists are committed to guiding clients toward self-respect, effective communication, and lasting healing.
Getting Started with Dialectical Behavior Therapy
- Consultation – Discuss your goals, history, and needs.
- Treatment Planning – Choose between individual DBT sessions and group-based learning.
- Skill Acquisition – Learn and practice core DBT skills.
- Real-Life Application – Use phone coaching and targeted practice to incorporate skills into daily life.
- Ongoing Support – Regular therapy ensures you stay on track and continue improving.
