Dialectical behavior therapy, commonly known as DBT, is a type of therapy that has been proven to be effective in treating a range of mental health conditions. Originally developed to treat people with borderline personality disorder, this therapy has been modified to address a range of other conditions.
How can dialectical behavior therapy help? Exploring what dialectical behavior therapy helps to treat and how teen dialectical behavior therapy can benefit younger patients may lead you or a loved one to wellness.
At Imagine Seattle, we believe all youth can thrive with the proper support. Our teen dialectical behavior therapy program can help teenagers develop the skills to manage their emotions and make healthy decisions. Contact us today at 888.346.0473 to learn more about how we can help.
What Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy?
DBT is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that has four key components:
- Mindfulness
- Distress tolerance
- Emotion regulation
- Interpersonal effectiveness
In therapy sessions, patients work with a therapist to learn skills that help them manage intense emotions and cope with stress in healthier ways. DBT aims to help individuals build a life worth living, even amid difficult emotions and circumstances.
What Dialectical Behavior Therapy Helps to Treat
How can DBT help? DBT has been extensively researched and has been proven effective in treating a range of conditions. According to research, DBT can help with:
- Borderline personality disorder
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Eating disorders
- Substance use disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Self-harm behaviors
DBT can also be effective in addressing issues related to anger management, difficulties with self-esteem, and relationship problems. It is a flexible therapy that can be adapted to meet each patient’s individual needs.
How Can Dialectical Behavior Therapy Help?
DBT can be helpful in several ways. It teaches patients coping skills that can be used in various situations. This can include skills like mindfulness, which helps individuals stay focused on the present moment and reduces feelings of anxiety. DBT can also help patients learn how to regulate their emotions more effectively, which can be particularly helpful for people who struggle with intense mood swings.
In addition to teaching coping skills, DBT is also an effective form of talk therapy. In a safe and supportive environment, patients work with therapists to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This can help patients gain insight into their mental health struggles and develop a deeper understanding of themselves.
Teen Dialectical Behavior Therapy
DBT can be particularly helpful for teenagers who are struggling with mental health conditions. Adolescence is a time of significant change and can be particularly challenging for young people. Teen dialectical behavior therapy focuses on helping young people build the skills they need to navigate the unique challenges they face during this time of their lives.
In addition to addressing mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety, teen DBT can also help young people with issues related to self-esteem, peer pressure, and family relationships. By learning DBT skills early on, young people can develop the tools they need to manage their mental health throughout their lives.
How Can DBT Help with Trauma?
Trauma can have a profound impact on a person’s mental health. While it can be challenging to treat trauma, DBT is an effective treatment for PTSD. In DBT, patients learn skills that can help them manage the after-effects of trauma, including distress tolerance and emotion regulation. By building these skills, patients can learn to manage the feelings of anxiety and fear that often come with PTSD.
Contact Imagine Seattle Today to Start Our DBT Program
If you or someone you love is struggling with mental health issues, dialectical behavior therapy may be a great option. At Imagine Seattle, we offer teen dialectical behavior therapy as part of our range of mental health services. Our experienced therapists are equipped to work with patients to address a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and trauma-related concerns.
Contact us today at 888.346.0473 or online to learn how we can help you or your loved one live a more fulfilling life.