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Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Program

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a cognitive behavioral treatment that emphasizes individual psychotherapy as well as group skills training classes. The aim of DBT is to help patients learn and use new skills and strategies to help them lead better lives personally and within a familial or community setting. 

DBT focuses on skills that include, but are not limited to, mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance and interpersonal effectiveness all in an effort to decrease harmful behaviors and replace them with ones that continue to positively impact a patient’s life.

Originally developed to treat Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), DBT is an evidence-based treatment model which aims to help patients cope with overwhelming stress and emotions. The purpose of DBT treatment is to provide patients with skills they can practice that allow them to create a better, more meaningful life for themselves and confront life’s challenges. The DBT therapist and patient work in concert to address problems, beginning with the most serious.

DBT is a long-term treatment program that is more intensive than traditional therapy. For the patient, therapy consists of weekly DBT skills group meetings with a DBT therapist. In individual therapy sessions, the DBT therapist and patient practice the learned skills to the patient’s own challenges and symptoms. Therapists may also be available for further coaching. DBT coaching helps provide patients with assistance in applying the skills learned and built in therapy to existing problems experienced by the patient.

DBT therapy is now recognized as a gold standard in holistic psychological treatment for patients of all ages. It has proven effective in helping to treat a wide range of disorders such as substance dependence, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and eating disorders.

DBT residential services at our facility can be an effective treatment method for

  • Depression
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
    • Resulting in trauma from traumatic events such as a natural disaster or sexual assault
  • Other mood disorders

Need Help? Give Us a Call.

Heartland Behavioral Health Services provides acute inpatient and residential treatment services to children and adolescents at our treatment facilities in Nevada, Missouri. We cannot offer a diagnosis, counseling or recommendations online, however, our professional staff offer 24/7 assessments at no cost. We can be reached anytime by calling 800-654-9605. If you need immediate medical assistance, contact 911 or seek the nearest emergency room.