Exploring Different Types of Therapy: What Is DBT?

Learn more about DBT and who it might be a good fit for

When it comes to mental health treatment, one size doesn’t fit all. There are many different types of therapy that are each designed to meet different emotional needs, diagnoses, and personal preferences. One type of therapy is called Dialectical Behavior Therapy, or DBT. 

What Is DBT?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Dr. Marsha Linehan. Originally created to treat individuals with borderline personality disorder, DBT has since been adapted to help people with a wide range of mental health challenges—including depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, substance use, and more.

At its core, DBT focuses on helping individuals regulate emotions, tolerate distress, improve relationships, and live more mindfully.

The word “dialectical” refers to the idea that two seemingly opposite things can be true at the same time. For example:
“I am doing the best I can” and “I need to do better”.
This balance between acceptance and change is central to DBT’s philosophy.

Key Components of DBT

DBT is more structured than many other forms of talk therapy. It combines individual therapy, group skills training, and phone coaching. Here's how it works:

1. Individual Therapy

One-on-one sessions with a therapist help clients work through personal issues and apply DBT skills to real-life situations. Therapists also support clients in staying motivated and on track with treatment goals.

2. Skills Training Group

In group settings, clients learn and practice core DBT skills in a classroom-like format. These sessions typically happen weekly and follow a curriculum.

The four main skill areas taught are:

• Mindfulness – Being present in the moment, without judgment.
  

• Distress Tolerance – Managing crises and tolerating emotional pain in healthy ways.
  

• Emotion Regulation – Understanding and managing intense emotions.
  

• Interpersonal Effectiveness – Navigating relationships with assertiveness, boundaries, and empathy.
  
  

3. Phone Crisis Coaching

Between sessions, clients can reach out to their therapist for guidance in applying DBT skills to tough, real-time situations.

Who Can Benefit from DBT?

Although DBT was originally developed for people with borderline personality disorder, research has shown it to be effective for individuals struggling with intense negative emotions such as:

• Intense emotional swings

• Self-harm or suicidal thoughts

• Impulsivity

• Chronic feelings of emptiness

• Trauma responses

• Substance use disorders

• Eating disorders
  
  

People who experience difficulty managing emotions, feel stuck in black-and-white thinking, or struggle in relationships often find DBT especially helpful.

Why DBT Works

What makes DBT stand out is its balance between acceptance and change. Instead of just trying to fix behaviors, DBT helps individuals accept where they are while building practical tools to grow. It acknowledges that emotional pain is valid while offering hope for a better way to cope with it.

DBT also emphasizes collaboration. Clients and therapists work together as partners, which can be empowering for those who’ve felt misunderstood or judged in other therapy settings.

DBT isn’t a quick fix—but for many, it’s a life-changing one. By blending compassion with structure, and acceptance with change, DBT offers a path toward greater emotional resilience, self-understanding, and healthier relationships.