Life can sometimes feel like a roller coaster of emotions. You might feel angry one moment and sad the next. These feelings can be overwhelming, especially when it seems like no one understands what you’re going through.
That’s where Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) comes in. It’s a type of therapy that helps people find calm in chaos. At Alter Behavioral Health, DBT is used to help people build emotional strength, learn balance, and regain control over their lives.
What Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a form of talk therapy that helps you understand and manage your emotions. The word “dialectical” means bringing together two ideas that seem opposite. DBT emphasizes the balance between acceptance and change.
DBT was first created to help people who struggled with very strong emotions, especially those with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). But today, it’s used to treat many mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.
DBT’s purpose is to help you achieve your goals and build a life that feels worth living.
The Core Principles of Dialectical Behavior Therapy
There are a few key ideas that guide every DBT session:
- Acceptance and Change: You learn to accept yourself while also finding ways to improve your life.
- Behavioral Skills: You discover tools to handle emotions, communicate better, and deal with stress.
- Balance: DBT helps you reduce everyday stress by calming your mind and body.
- Mindfulness: What’s unique about DBT is that you focus on the present instead of getting stuck worrying about the past.
At Alter Behavioral Health, we create a safe and supportive space where clients can practice DBT and improve their lives.
How DBT Differs from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Many people confuse DBT with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and it’s easy to see why. While both may share similarities, they’re not the same.
CBT mainly focuses on changing negative thoughts and behaviors. DBT builds on that approach by adding mindfulness and acceptance. This means that instead of avoiding your feelings or shutting them down, you learn to accept and manage them.
The Four Key Skills Taught in DBT
DBT teaches four main skills:
- Mindfulness: Learning to pay attention to what’s happening right now.
- Distress Tolerance: Handling tough situations gracefully without losing control.
- Emotion Regulation: Accepting and managing your feelings instead of ignoring them.
- Interpersonal Effectiveness: Communicating better, setting boundaries, and maintaining healthy relationships.
These skills build on each other, and over time, people notice they can handle stressful situations better and set boundaries. They can do things that once seemed impossible. According to 2022 research, even shorter DBT programs — around six months — can lead to meaningful improvements.
Who Can Benefit from Dialectical Behavior Therapy?
Today, research shows that DBT can successfully help people with conditions like depression, anxiety, substance use, and PTSD. DBT is especially helpful for people dealing with:
- Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
- Depression and anxiety
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Eating disorders
- Addiction and substance use
- Self-harm or suicidal thoughts
At Alter Behavioral Health, we combine DBT sessions with group skills training. The therapy is delivered by compassionate professionals who understand that healing looks different for everyone.
How DBT Helps with Anxiety, Depression, and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
People who live with anxiety often feel trapped and overwhelmed. DBT helps them pause, breathe, and manage their thoughts.
For those with depression, DBT can bring structure and motivation to their lives. Taking small steps consistently, like practicing mindfulness every day or being aware of your emotions, can lift the heavy weight of sadness over time.
And for individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder, studies show that DBT can reduce emotional breakdowns, improve relationships, and lead to lower self-harm thoughts. It helps people understand their emotions instead of being controlled by them.
What to Expect in a DBT Session
A DBT session at Alter Behavioral Health feels safe, calm, and collaborative. Here’s what you can expect:
- One-on-One Sessions: You’ll work closely with a therapist who listens and guides you through your emotions.
- Group Sessions: You’ll learn and practice DBT skills with others who understand what you’re going through, improving bonds.
- Homework & Practice: You’ll be encouraged to use new skills in daily life, like healthy communication.
- Ongoing Support: Therapists at Alter Behavioral Health often provide phone coaching to help clients stay on track — a practice that research has shown can significantly increase engagement and skill use between sessions.
Over time, most people notice a real change, whether it’s fewer emotional rollercoasters or better relationships.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy at Alter Behavioral Health
At Alter Behavioral Health, we combine clinical expertise with genuine compassion, helping clients cope and thrive. DBT is part of a larger journey toward lasting recovery.
Every treatment plan is customized. Whether you’re facing depression or trauma, the DBT programs at Alter Behavioral Health can help. We focus on long-term growth and a healthier future.
A New Chapter Starts Here
We understand that healing doesn’t happen overnight; it takes time. If you or someone you love is struggling to manage emotions, Alter Behavioral Health is here to guide you through DBT. Let us help you build a balanced life. Contact us today to start your journey toward emotional wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dialectical Behavior Therapy
1. How long does DBT take to work?
Most people start noticing changes within a few weeks, but full DBT programs usually last several months.
2. Is DBT only for people with Borderline Personality Disorder?
No. DBT helps anyone struggling with strong emotions or stress.
3. Can I take part in a DBT program online?
Yes. Many therapists offer online or hybrid DBT sessions.
4. What’s the difference between DBT and regular talk therapy?
DBT teaches you practical skills for managing emotions, not just talking about problems.
5. Does DBT really work?
Yes. Research shows DBT can reduce depression, anxiety, and self-harm behaviors while improving quality of life.
6. How do I start DBT at Alter Behavioral Health?
You can reach out directly to schedule an assessment and begin a personalized therapy plan.
