Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

What is DBT?

 Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a compassionate, evidence-based form of psychotherapy developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan that can be used in the treatment of a number of different mental health disorders. DBT is considered by many the best psychotherapeutic approach for treating severely disordered individuals, as well as people with multiple mental health diagnoses.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy was originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder (BPD), and has become the standard treatment protocol for those with BPD, but has also been shown as effective in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, major depression, and addiction. This therapeutic modality falls under the broader category of behavioral therapy, and like other therapies such as CBT and REBT, is focused enhancing patients’ capabilities through learning behavioral skills.

DBT is effective for the following conditions:

  • • Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
  • • Treatment Resistant Depression
  •  • Bipolar Disorder
  • • Bulimia Nervosa
  • • Binge Eating Disorder
  • • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • • Adolescents with self harm or suicidality
  • • Adults & children with emotional dysregulation

How DBT Works

Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a highly structured form of behavioral therapy with multiple components. Comprehensive DBT includes groups focused on skills, homework in order to practice skills, and individual coaching, all of which are available at Dr. Rodriguez’s mental health program in Boca Raton. Outpatient programming typically runs for six months to one year, but can be condensed into a shorter, full time program if clinically appropriate. Some individuals benefit from a DBT-informed approach, depending on their diagnosis, where they learn basic DBT skills without the other aspects of full-form DBT.

During skills training, participants move through the four modules within DBT: Mindfulness, Interpersonal Effectiveness, Emotional Regulation, and Distress Tolerance. Each module contains within them different specific skills pertaining to that skills category. Clients learn and practice these skills through outside assignment, one-on-one therapy, and skills-based groups, all overseen by a clinician specifically trained in DBT. All DBT therapists involved with the client (i.e., group facilitators, individual coaches, etc) consult with one another through the course of the modules to insure proper oversight.

It is strongly recommended that if someone is interested in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, they schedule an initial evaluation with a member of our team, especially if they have not already received a recent, definitive mental health diagnosis. Dr. Rodriguez holds the distinction of being one the very few medical doctors in the country who is also intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy. In addition, Dr. Rodriguez oversees a team of doctors and psychotherapists who are all also intensively trained in DBT. Based on the assessment, a professional recommendation can be made, whether it be individual DBT therapy, our introductory groups, our six month full Dialectical Behavior Therapy modules, or our intensive PHP or IOP program.

  • “I feel better overall. I have learned valuable tools to help manage my issues”

    - Jay B, Delray Beach

Existing patients, please text 561-409-7296 for follow-up appointment requests or if you have medication concerns please text 561-409-7296.

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